If you’re wondering why the word “concertos” is missing from this CD’s title, it’s because this is first and foremost a jazz album. The Jacques Loussier Trio takes Bach’s great achievements as a starting point–playing the main themes pretty much straight–then moving into a number of clever and tasteful variations, all in the style of the music. Those that scoff at the idea of any kind of jazz being “in the style” of Bach should recall that Bach was a legendary improvisor, and it’s not too far-fetched to think of him as a fan if not a practitioner of jazz were he alive today.
In any event, these fine musicians keep their explorations brief, which explains how all six Brandenburgs can fit on one CD. The Trio keeps pretty close to Bach’s rhythmic plan–the dances are where they should be, though a big exception is Concerto No. 4’s Allegro movement, which gets treated to a saucy Caribbean beat. Probably the biggest thing to get used to is the sound of a jazz trio in this music, which feels a might spare compared to the orchestral original. Pianist Jacques Loussier gets the lion’s share of the solo work, though bassist Benoit Dunoyer offers a slithery-cool interlude in the middle of Concerto No. 5’s sunny first movement. This is one of the movements (there are a few others) that unavoidably bring to mind the Vince Guaraldi Trio’s Charlie Brown Suite (that delicious skating waltz!), but that’s certainly not a bad thing. So, if you’re open to re-experiencing these classics in a relaxed, buttoned-down style, this excellently recorded disc will bring many hours of listening pleasure. [10/24/2006]
