JOACHIM KÜHN “The Way”

ARTIST

Joachim Kühn

ALBUM TITLE

“The Way”

LABEL

ACT

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For four decades, it has been clear that the classic piano–bass–drums trio is Joachim Kühn’s preferred format. This became apparent when the Leipzig-born pianist teamed up with Jean-François Jenny-Clark and Daniel Humair, creating one of the most memorable ensembles in the history of European jazz. That trio endured for many years, and Kühn has since led others. His latest incarnation is this French trio, captured on The Way, recorded shortly after the death of his brother Rolf Kühn – a remarkable clarinetist who deserves far more recognition. Dedicated to Rolf, the album stands among Joachim’s most compelling recent statements.

Much of its strength lies in the inspired choice of rhythm section. Thibault Cellier proves central – a bassist with a resonant tone and commanding presence, serving as the backbone of the group while also drawing striking colors from the bow. Sylvain Darrifourcq, for his part, reveals an extraordinary palette on drums, bringing texture and nuance even when simply marking time. Their interplay with Kühn produces moments of high drama, as in Supertonic, where the pianist, at 80, shows not the slightest diminishment of power. Another highlight is Homogeneous Emotions, which opens the album. Written by Ornette Coleman – with whom Kühn recorded a memorable series of duets – it exemplifies the “shock wave” intensity that has always been one facet of his pianism.

Yet there is also a more reflective Kühn, revealed in the suspended, almost Paul Bley–like atmosphere of Go Süd, a piece that unsettles by withholding certainties. The album’s centerpiece is the nearly fifteen-minute title track, credited to all three musicians. It begins with a storm of cascading single notes and nervous, fragmented phrases, moves into a mysterious rubato section, then circles back to its opening mood before resolving with a quiet, lyrical melody. The piece epitomizes the trio’s profound mutual understanding and collective spirit.

Throughout, Kühn pours forth a wealth of ideas – stormy, tender, restless, and lyrical. The Way is the work of an artist who remains unmissable, and undiminished.

—Giuseppe Piacentino

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