What distinguishes Rio, though, is the way Jarrett's old self tries new things out. He brings light and shade to even the shortest phrases no note, it seems, is held too long or played too loud. These pieces make use of well-trodden idioms, but Jarrett's touchboth exquisitely sure and infinitely sensitivesets them apart. 'Part XIV' offers a characteristic blend of gospel and Americana, at once sprightly and insouciant. Jarrett's early sound is also strong, with 'Part VII' echoing the beautifully lyrical ballads of Facing You, while 'Part XI' is a rollicking blues played with utter conviction. Simmering and shimmering like Debussy's Preludes, they're a worthwhile reminder that jazz didn't appear out of nowhere in the 1920s. The concert kicks off with a forceful, atonal improvisation, punctuated by violent chromatic flourishesmore The Rite of Spring than 'Summertime.' 'Part II' and 'Part IX' quell the flames, but are equally indebted to 20th century classical repertoire. Which is not to suggest there's a hint of complacency in the sheer range of Rio.

Something has changed since Jarrett's last solo release, which emerged after 'a close brush with a nervous breakdown.' Testament (ECM, 2009) is magnificent, but its darkness and intensity can be overwhelming. A sense of contentment and pure enjoyment permeates the playing. But can he keep this up? Jarrett thinks Rio, from an April, 2011 concert in Rio de Janeiro, is one of his best, saying 'There is no way that I could have gotten to this particular musical place a second time.' That might sound a little portentous, but Rio is indeed a special album. If jazz has any superstars, he's one of them. Koln Concert (ECM, 1975) has sold almost 4 million copies, attracting listeners from far beyond the loyal enclaves of Soho and Greenwich Village. Keith Jarrett's first solo piano album, Facing You (ECM, 1972), came out nearly forty years ago since then he's become the high priest of piano improvisation, famed for his ability to walk onstage and, as a bemused Vladimir Ashkenazy put it, 'play all the right notes' on the spot.

Keith jarrett rio part 6 transcription