This release has been ‘resting’ in the ECM vaults ever since it was recorded live in 1979 in Tokyo by Jarrett and his European quartet. This group recorded four albums between ’74 and ’79 but only three of them were released at the time. Sleeper finds Jarrett in the company of sax and flute player Jan Garbarek, double bassist Palle Danielsson and drummer/force of nature Jon Christensen. A group that sounds very different to the American quartet he worked with at the same time. The first disc opens with ‘Personal Mountains’, a high energy maelstrom where the rhythm section sweeps the soloists along with verve and gusto, Jarrett is clearly infected by this and plays his socks off. Garbarek does his level best to stay in the running but takes a few breaks to play percussion and “listen in awe” as he put it.
The rest of the performance takes in all manner of moods and includes flute and bowed double bass, as well as lots of shakers, maracas etc – three of the four musicians are credited as percussionists. This was a highly articulate and dynamic band that was positively vibrating with ideas, it’s surprising that this performance has taken so long to emerge. JK
By Jason Kennedy
More articles from this author
Read Next From Music
See all
Music Interview: Alex Lipinski
West Country means a very different thing depending on where you live. Originally from Somerset in the UK, this singer-songwriter has the talent to go all the way, says Sean Hannam.
- Sean Hannam
- Feb 2023
Music Interview: Steven Price
Sean Hannam and hi-fi+ caught up with Academy Award-winning British film composer, Steven Price in Soho, at the legendary Groucho Club, where he was working with Bowers & Wilkins to promote the Panorama 3 Dolby Atmos soundbar.
- Sean Hannam
- Jan 2023
Music Interview: Graham Day
Sean Hannam speaks to Graham Day, one of the founding fathers of British Garage rock, with a true cult following.
- Sean Hannam
- Dec 2022
Music Interview: Steve Harley
More than just a 1970s Glam Rocker, Steve Harley - of Cockney Rebel fame – is still every bit as rock and roll today as ever. Sean Hannam catches up with the tireless tourer, with 50 years in the music business under his belt.
- Sean Hannam
- Nov 2022
