Yes, Keith Jarrett is a wonder. In this album, as in others, his technical prowess at the piano is amazing. At times, it seems as though there are two, perhaps three, pianists playing simultaneously. The problem here, as in similar solo improvisational albums, is that the technique is an end in itself. There is little beauty, wit, or thoughtfulness. Listening to this often painful album is like watching a world's strongest man contest. Wow, look at those hulks move weights. But what does it prove? And after you've seen it a couple of times, who cares any more? Jarrett is at his best, in my opinion, when facing a score. His The Melody At Night, With You is one of the most gorgeous and sensitive albums I know of. He also plays splendid Bach and Handel. Don't buy the Vienna concert until you've heard, say, a half hour's worth. If you can fight off the headache, make the purchase. Caveat emptor.
February 13, 2008 |  | One of the all-time favourite records |  |
I was obsessed by Jarrett's playing for many years and while now I can find myself irritated by the enormous ego and its sometimes stultifying effect on his music, Vienna Concert remains for me a sublime creation which made a profound impact on me the first time I heard it. More than in any of Jarrett's other solo concerts, the capacity for waywardness is kept in check and he delivers a marvellously focused performance, synthesising styles that would seem to be irreconcilable into an inevitable whole. As a professional classical pianist, I'm tempted to say that of all piano records I've heard, this one has been the most influential.
December 1, 2007Nice record, a little scared. just get involved into the music, and you get released.
September 24, 2007Keith Jarrett considered this to be his best recorded performance (see wikipedia), and he was right. All the complexities of his improvisation, the well of melody, the tenderness, and the diversity are here. Excellent. Something to which one must listen and not simply hear. It is an aural pleasure
September 4, 2007This concert, in Jarrett's own words, doesn't just throw sparks but speaks the language of the flame itself. I have to agree with the other reviewers in saying that there is something mystical about this concert, beyond words, beyond any explanation, even for Jarrett. It is symmetrical, it is profound, and it speaks of an incredible journey of incredible depth.
I have never heard a human being play music like this, much less improvise it, and I assure you that this recording will bring you hours of enjoyment and thought for years. I return to this recording often and still hear new things. It is a many-facet jewel to look at and see through, and hold dear. It is a moment in time that will last forever.
September 8, 2006More reviews at Amazon.com ...
(25 reviews)