Danilo Perez “Across The Crystal Sea”

Initially I had mixed feelings about this most enjoyable disc. The music presented by Danilo Perez and composer-arranger Claus Ogerman is some of the most gentle and relaxing music I’ve had the pleasure of encountering in a long time.

However, I cannot shake the nagging feeling that what is entertaining me is not jazz. If it isn’t is that such a bad thing? I think not, especially in light of Maestro Ellington’s sentiments that are noted at the top of this page. Why quarrel over category?

I’ve long been a fan of the music of Claus Ogerman, ever since the days when he was providing those cloud-like cushions for Antonio Carlos Jobim. Danilo Perez has been someone with whom I been familiar. Their marriage here works wonderfully.

The percussive nature of Perez’ playing does not, as some have suggested, clash with the gentle orchestrations provided by Ogerman. The title track is particularly engaging. It has become for me one of those melodies which I cannot banish from my brain.

With the exception of two tracks, all the music here comes from the pen of Claus Ogerman much of it based on classical themes. The pair of non-Ogerman tunes are given added life via the vocals of Cassandra Wilson. Fans of Bill Evans will recognize “(All of a Sudden) My Heart Sings.”

To my ears Ogerman has given Perez an ideal canvas upon which to paint his improvisations. No matter how you classify this music, “Across The Crystal Sea” makes for good listening.