Brooklyn Eye

Lyrically

How to make big dreams come true? Joachim Mencel found the answer. An outstanding jazz pianist, also known on the scene of Christians from the New Life formation, thought about recording his own material in a New York studio in the company of eminent American instrumentalists. Later he moved to words, and from words to deeds, that is, sounds that are beautiful and original in beauty. The originality of the "Brooklyn Eye" album is largely due to the hurdy-gurdy, which Mencel boldly introduced to America's jazz salons. The instrument associated with early music or European folk, here it captivatingly resonates with the guitar (Steve Cardenas), double bass (Scott Colley) and drums ( Rudy Royston) Or maybe, considering the folklore origin of jazz, such a fusion should not come as a surprise?

With the sounds of the lyre, Joachim Mencel resembles the melodies of two songs from the New Life repertoire - "Duchu, come", sung years ago by Mietek Szcześniak, and "I'm Calling You, Lord" performed by Natalia Niemen. The instrumental versions of these songs get a new load of improvisation, and the leader winks at the gospel tradition rich in the ocean. Besides, none of the compositions lacks attempts to reach deep into American culture. Also when a Pole in New York puts down the hurdy-gurdy to get back to his first love - the piano. Certainly the audience will not complain about monotony. It is balladic ("Pelican") and swinging ("I'm Yo Man"). With a bang ("The Things") and with hands raised ("Psalm 88).

*Translated from Polish. Gość Niedzielny is the largest weekly publication in Poland.