JEAN-LUC PONTY
In Concert (J.L.P. Productions)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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In Concert is a superbly crafted live album by Jean-Luc Ponty, one of the few jazz violinist comparable to Stephane Grappelli. Opening this 1999 concert from Warsaw, Poland with the red hot "Rhythms Of Hope," Ponty is magnificent. He and his band are on fire, producing impressive solos and well-crafted ensemble passages. All of the songs were composed by Ponty and use tight structure and lyrical form to gain and hold the listener's attention.

Ponty began playing violin at age 5, eventually playing his chosen instrument in the bands of Frank Zappa, George Duke, and John McLaughlin before finally setting off on a solo voyage. For this session, Ponty is joined by William Lecomte on keyboards, Guy Nsangue on bass, Thierry Arpino on drums, and Moustapha Cisse on percussion. This internationally mixed band is wonderfully integrated with technique to burn. The music ebbs and flows in bewitching fashion, resulting in beautifully crafted musical arrangements. Two of my favorite numbers are the aforementioned "Rhythms Of Hope" and "Mouna Bowa," a pair of songs which build intensity, release the tension, then begin the process over again. They are both warm and exuberant, constant sources of aural delight. Ponty's playing, in particular, often has a breathtaking beauty that is bewitching in its vision.

Ponty has other live albums in his discography. However, In Concert is special. It showcases impressive song writing with thoughtful programming and outstanding instrumentation. Highly recommended.

© 2004 - Ron Saranich