Storyville Records proudly presents the previously unreleased live double album, Michel Petrucciani Trio – Jazz Club Montmartre – CPH 1988, by the legendary French pianist Michel Petrucciani. Recorded during a memorable performance at Copenhagen’s Jazzhus Montmartre on July 3rd, 1988, the album captures Petrucciani in the company of two jazz icons, Gary Peacock on bass and Roy Haynes on drums.
While the trio only came together for a brief European tour in the summer of 1988, the chemistry they shared on stage was undeniable. The trio, propelled by a studio session the previous autumn, radiates synergy, as they explore six of Michel’s original compositions with a sense of grace and spontaneity. On this recording, listeners will rediscover Petrucciani’s unique lyrical universe, as well as his reverence for modern jazz icons, paying tribute to Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, and Paul Bley with special arrangements of classics like Someday My Prince Will Come, Mr. K.J. and Turnaround. From the explosive energy of She Did It Again to the introspective beauty of Autumn Leaves, Petrucciani’s virtuosic playing reveals a rare sense of urgency, joy, and an unrelenting passion for life.
As Gary Peacock and Roy Haynes were at the height of their careers—Haynes playing with Chick Corea and Peacock with Keith Jarrett—they were drawn to Petrucciani, recognizing the greatness of his artistry. Together, they formed a trio, bound by a shared intuition and respect for one another, and this performance at Montmartre is a testament to that fleeting moment of jazz brilliance.
This concert took place at the midpoint of Petrucciani’s meteoric career, 12 years after his Paris debut and 11 years before his untimely passing. Despite the physical challenges posed by glass bone disease (osteogenesis imperfecta), Petrucciani’s fierce determination, boundless love for music, and infectious laughter inspired all who knew him.
Now, more than 35 years after that magical evening in Copenhagen, we invite listeners to close their eyes and step back in time. July 3rd, 1988 …it could have been last night, or it could be tomorrow morning!
A monument over one of the most creative and joyful pianists in jazz ever!
BIOGRAPHY
Michel Petrucciani (1962–1999) was one of the most brilliant pianists to emerge from Europe’s jazz scene. Despite his short stature due to glass bone disease, he rose to international acclaim, performing with the likes of Charles Lloyd, Wayne Shorter, Joe Lovano, Tony Williams, Stéphane Grappelli and many other greats. Known for his lyrical style, rhythmic power, and infectious
joie de vivre, Petrucciani’s legacy continues to enchant listeners around the world.
Michel Petrucciani – piano
Gary Peacock – bass
Roy Haynes – drums
CD1:
1. 13th
2. She Did It Again
3. My Funny Valentine
4. In a Sentimental Mood
5. Mr. K.J.
6. One For Us
CD2:
1. Turnaround
2. It’s a Dance
3. Autumn Leaves
4. La Champagne
5. Giant Steps
6. Someday My Prince Will Come
“Franskmandens fingerfærdighed og musikalitet er forrygende. (…) Musikken swinger, så det er en fornøjelse…” – ***** – Michelsen, Politiken
“There is the percussive energy of Petrucciai, the effortless grace of Peacock, the fills of Haynes… (…) A must-have addition to the discographies of these three musicians.” – Siclier, Le Monde
“Both accompanists on the album are as razor sharp and ferocious as the little giant man. They sound ferociously delightful together! (…) It is a unique chance for us music lovers to have such a fluid and creative evening on record. A most definitely must buy album.” – Sülünbaz, Dark Blue Notes
“Det er så vildt. Jeg tror ikke at triojazz anno 80’erne kan lyde ret meget bedre.” – Overgaard, JazzNyt
“The trio being Michel Petrucciani’s central form of expression, he exults with a sometimes lyrical, sometimes very dynamic playing rich in remarkable expressiveness and originality…” – Carette, FIP, Radio France
“Og med dette selskapet av musikere, med to av de aller beste i «klassen», er dette blitt en fantastisk utgivelse, hvor hvert sekund av de 106 minuttene og 42 sekundene er stor triokunst.” – Granlie, *Salt Peanuts
“A concert of crazy intensity recorded in 1988 at Montmartre, the temple of jazz in Denmark.” – Morriset, TSF Jazz
“To be rediscovered with a pleasure still intact.” – Lambert, Musicologie
“This double CD recreates the performance of this ephemeral but absolutely magical trio.” – JazzNicknames
“In short, between original compositions and reimagined standards, the trio delivers an extraordinary performance. (…) This beautiful album, with its honest recording quality, is yet another concrete example of his brilliance—a remarkable addition to the pianist’s discography.” – Dorison, CultureJazz
“The pianist’s inspired and virtuosic improvisations, along with the lyrical dynamism of his playing, enchant the listener from start to finish. The musical energy of the double album evokes wonder and emotion, reaffirming Petrucciani’s lasting brilliance.” – Videmann, Latins de Jazz…& Cie
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