Jazz Club Montmartre CPH 1988

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.