Contrasting Visions: Benjamin Koppel, from Requiem to Celebration

Saxophonist and composer Benjamin Koppel has recently released two contrasting yet equally compelling albums that showcase his remarkable versatility and artistic vision. With “Story Of Mankind – A Requiem,” Koppel has crafted a profound and thought-provoking large ensemble work that serves as a poignant meditation on the human condition across different eras and cultures. Inspired by the haunting photographs of Jan Grarup capturing the devastation of war in Ukraine, this ambitious requiem transcends boundaries by seamlessly blending elements of jazz, classical, pop, R&B, and folk traditions into a rich tapestry of sound.

In stark contrast, Koppel’s other recent release, “Time Again,” is a joyous and celebratory exploration of the timeless spirit of jazz. Featuring a stellar trio with his father Anders Koppel on Hammond B3 organ and the virtuosic Brian Blade on drums, this album is a masterclass in dynamic interplay and improvisational prowess. Drawing inspiration from various sources throughout music history, the trio takes listeners on a genre-blending journey that touches both the heart and the feet, breathing new life into the classic organ trio format.

In this review, I delve into the profound depths of “Story Of Mankind – A Requiem,” and then explore the celebratory spirit of “Time Again”. Through these two distinct yet equally captivating releases, Koppel cements his position as one of the most innovative and genre-defying voices currently on the scene.

Meditation on the Human Condition: “Story Of Mankind – A Requiem”

Benjamin Koppel’s ambitious large ensemble work, “Story Of Mankind – A Requiem,” is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience across different eras and cultures. Inspired by the haunting photographs of Jan Grarup, which capture the devastation of war in Ukraine, Koppel has crafted a requiem that transcends boundaries and speaks to the shared tragedies and triumphs of humanity.

The piece draws from a diverse array of musical influences, seamlessly blending elements of jazz, classical, pop, R&B, and folk traditions. Koppel’s versatility as a composer shines through, as he deftly weaves together disparate genres into a cohesive and meaningful tapestry of sound. From the introspective ballads that evoke a sense of melancholy and loss, to the energetic, rocking passages that celebrate the resilience of the human spirit, the work is a testament to Koppel’s artistic vision and his ability to synthesize complex emotions into a compelling musical narrative.

Koppel’s incorporation of poetry by Guillaume Apollinaire, Tomas “TT” Krag, and Morten Søndergaard adds a powerful layer of depth and meaning to the work. The words of these esteemed poets resonate with a sense of surrealism and absurdity, reflecting the horrific realities of war and the cyclical nature of human conflict. Koppel’s musical interpretation of these texts is both haunting and cathartic, inviting listeners to confront the darkest aspects of our shared history while also offering a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful future.

The ensemble’s performances are nothing short of exceptional, with each musician contributing their unique voice to the collective whole. Koppel’s saxophone work is particularly noteworthy, his tone rich and emotive, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions with remarkable nuance and depth. The interplay between the various instruments is seamless, creating a sense of unity and cohesion that belies the complexity of the work.

Overall, “Story Of Mankind” is a powerful and thought-provoking work that challenges listeners to confront the harsh realities of human existence while also celebrating the enduring spirit of hope and resilience. Koppel’s ability to blend diverse musical influences and incorporate multimedia elements like photography and poetry elevates the work to a level of artistic expression that transcends genre boundaries and speaks to the universal human experience.

A Celebration of tradition: “Time Again”

In stark contrast to the somber and introspective tone of “Story Of Mankind,” Benjamin Koppel’s latest release, “Time Again,” is a joyous and celebratory exploration of the timeless spirit of jazz. Featuring a stellar trio of Koppel on alto saxophone, his father Anders Koppel on Hammond B3 organ, and the virtuosic Brian Blade on drums, the album is a masterclass in dynamic interplay and improvisational prowess.

From the opening notes, it’s clear that this is a collaboration between three musicians operating at the highest level of their craft. The classic organ trio format serves as a foundation, but in the hands of these innovators, it becomes a launching pad for a journey that touches both the heart and the feet. Koppel’s lyrical saxophone lines soar over Anders’ bubbling organ articulations, while Blade’s explosive, polyrhythmic drumming propels the grooves forward with captivating surprises.

The album draws inspiration from various sources throughout music history, blending elements of jazz, classical, and other genres into a cohesive and genre-defying whole. The compositions, penned by both Benjamin and Anders Koppel, as well as a contribution from renowned pianist Kenny Werner, are intricate and nuanced, offering ample opportunity for the trio to showcase their improvisational skills.

What truly sets “Time Again” apart, however, is the palpable chemistry between the three musicians. As a father-son duo, Benjamin and Anders Koppel bring a deep musical connection and lifelong artistic rapport to the recordings. Their ability to seamlessly blend genres like jazz, classical, and rock stems from their shared musical lineage and openness to experimentation. Blade’s addition to the mix elevates the trio’s chemistry to new heights, his drumming providing a propulsive force that perfectly complements the strong improvisational skills of the Koppels.

Throughout the album, the trio effortlessly navigates between introspective ballads and high-energy burners, executing intricate compositions with grace and spontaneity. Their ability to shift gears on a dime, transitioning from delicate melodic passages to explosive improvisational excursions, is a testament to their individual artistry and collective synergy.

In the end, “Time Again” is a celebration of the enduring power of jazz to move both the mind and the body. By combining their diverse backgrounds, musical sensibilities, and improvisational prowess, Benjamin Koppel, Brian Blade, and Anders Koppel have crafted an album that transcends boundaries and offers a fresh take on the classic organ trio format. It’s a captivating and genre-blending listening experience that invites audiences to cut loose or chill within the sheer power of their performances.

Final Thoughts

Both “Story Of Mankind – A Requiem” and “Time Again” showcase Benjamin Koppel’s remarkable artistry and ability to transcend genre boundaries. The former is a profound meditation on the human condition, a poignant requiem that confronts the harsh realities of war and conflict while celebrating the enduring spirit of hope and resilience. Through his seamless blending of diverse musical influences and incorporation of multimedia elements like photography and poetry, Koppel has crafted a work that speaks to the universal human experience across different eras and cultures.

On the other hand, “Time Again” is a joyous celebration of the timeless spirit of jazz, a dynamic collaboration that breathes new life into the classic organ trio format. The palpable chemistry between Koppel, his father Anders, and the virtuosic Brian Blade results in a captivating and genre-blending listening experience that invites audiences to cut loose or chill within the sheer power of their performances. Together, these two contrasting yet equally compelling releases solidify Benjamin Koppel’s position as one of the most innovative and genre-defying voices in contemporary music, a true master of his craft who continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression.

THE STORY OF MANKIND.

Release Date: May 17, 2024
Format: CD | Streaming
Label: Cowbell Records

TIME AGAIN

Line-Up:
Benjamin Koppel, Alto Saxophone | Anders Koppel, Hammond B3 Organ | Brian Blade, Drums

Release Date: May 26, 2024
Format: CD | Streaming
Label: Cowbell Records

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