Elements Of Poetry

A pianist who listens closely to sound, and is serious about every note, Oskar Aichinger is joined by bassist Achim Tang and drummer Paul Skrepek Jun for 12 original compositions. The title of the recording is appropriate, as there is a lovely ambience to the whole, but one that never gets lost in sentimentality. Rather, Achinger focuses on color, timbre, and the combination of clusters to create some very attractive lines. At times, the pianist takes it outside with advanced techniques, but sound is never subordinate to technique. Jun proves himself a worthy partner throughout, as he sprays layers of finely formulated percussion. Sometimes, the sounds are hardly recognizable, but they are always in good taste, and although the pianist gets lost in himself occasionally, there is plenty of rewarding listening of the highest quality and creativity.