Eldar Djangirov Rhapsodize

Eldar Djangirov
Rhapsodize
Twelve Tone Resonance, LLC

Pianist Eldar Djangirov came to this country from the former Soviet Union and soon established himself as a child prodigy, appearing on Marian McPartland's piano jazz at the age of 12, and had released two albums before he attended the University of Southern California on a full scholarship. He signed with Sony at the age of 17 and released several critically acclaimed recordings for that label. About 2011's "Three Stories," a solo piano recording, I observed, "Eldar's virtuosity and command of the classical and jazz traditions is astonishing." Listening to this recording reinforces that observation.

On "Rhapsodize," Djangirov leads a trio with Raviv Markovitz on bass and Jimmy Macbride on drums. They complement and add heat on this recording that opens with a tour de force rendition of "A Night in Tunisia." On this, Djangirov inspired playing conjures up Bud Powell crossed with Chucho Valdes with a breathtaking improvisation with him handling the breakneck tempo and tempo shifts with the preciseness of his touch, like a Gold Medal skier negotiates a shalom course. "Anthemic" is an original built upon a captivating left-hand riff for an exciting performance set against a tumultuous backing. His further showcases his ability to develop a solo over a simple motif is also displayed on "Airport." A relaxed, lyrical take on "Willow Weep For Me," provides a welcome contrast.

Other selections include the percolating bop of "Burn," a meditative interpretation of Soundgarden's "Black Hole Sun," and the startling "Variations on a Bach Prelude" where his virtuosity is on full display. The remaining selections are similarly impressive. Djangirov's extraordinary technique and musical inventiveness, along with the first-rate backing provided, result in this outstanding recording.

I received my review copy from a publicist. Here is Eldar Djangirov playing "Night in Tunisia."