Yelena Eckemoff - Scenes from the Dark Ages (2025) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

This is clearly an ensemble performance. Although the entire music was written by Eckemoff, the narrative qualities seem to have required an extended sound palette. Like Chick Corea's forays into storytelling (think of "Romantic Warrior"), this is not just an album of songs, but one with melodic threads that connect the roles and the different movements. It is not a jazz album in the proper sense, although improvisation, instrumental skill and occasional groove permeate. Riccardo Bertuzzi's electric guitar inserts are reminiscent of Corea's own sound designs, as well as the fast-paced performances of Trilok Gurtu's uniquely combined percussion and percussion playing. The groove does not drive the music, it seems more orchestrated. And yet, as Eckemoff says about the project: "I didn't just want guitar and bass, I wanted rock guitar, electric bass and a really strong drum set.“ In other words: a more prog-rock feeling - in this case focused on melodic expression rather than a driving beat. The flute playing of Carlo Nicita contributes significantly to this special approach. For example, "Monks In Scriptorium" seems to inevitably lead to the fact that Nicita evokes the mysterious and calm mood of the song. It is the same with the aptly titled, solemn "Cathedral", in which Eckemoff's sound palette permeates throughout. In fact, "Scenes From The Dark Ages" seems like a fulfilled childhood dream of her "Medieval Symphony". (John Ephland, Downbeat)

"Scenes From The Dark Ages combines captivating progressive rock and jazz with a medieval concept and is performed by a first-class ensemble. It takes the listener into an almost two-hour, surreal and captivating experience." (Earsplit)

Yelena's latest album is not an interpretation of old music. Tropes in the modern jazz feeling. Rather, Yelena combines classical music constructs and her own melodies with the diverse rhythmic and stylistic innovations of jazz, fusion and world music of the 21st century in her songwriting for this album. In addition, she gives every moment of the album her own joy in the guidance and interpretation of this unique material. (Suzanne Lorge)

TRACKLIST

1. Yelena Eckemoff - Pilgrims
2. Yelena Eckemoff - Village Tavern
3. Yelena Eckemoff - From Peasants Life
4. Yelena Eckemoff - Spell-bound Fortress
5. Yelena Eckemoff - Monks in Scriptorium
6. Yelena Eckemoff - Cathedral
7. Yelena Eckemoff - Legends of the Castle
8. Yelena Eckemoff - Adventures of a Knight
9. Yelena Eckemoff - Battle
10. Yelena Eckemoff - Chivalry
11. Yelena Eckemoff - Tournament
12. Yelena Eckemoff - Masquerade
13. Yelena Eckemoff - Alchemist
14. Yelena Eckemoff - Quest
15. Yelena Eckemoff - From the Life of the Lords



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