Giorgi Mikadze Trio Establishes Musical Ties Between Jazz and Eastern Europe

The closing moments of the Giorgi Mikadze Trio's latest jazz offering embody an atmosphere of commencement, with studio chatter trailing off as Mikadze prompts, 'Let’s start,' signaling the beginning of a musical odyssey rather than its end.

Eastern European Roots in a Jazz Setting

'Face to Face: Georgian Songbook Vol. 1' serves not just as an album but as a tantalizing gateway to what promises to be an extensive exploration of Georgia's rich musical heritage. Within its tracks, the trio, headed by the Georgia-born Mikadze and featuring French artists François Moutin on bass and Raphaël Pannier on drums, offer their interpretations of pieces penned by seven notable Georgian composers. These compositions, once destined for soundtracks in film, animation, and theater, now find a new home in jazz.

A Fusion of Styles and Moods

The trio showcases their dynamic chemistry and shared vision through various moods and styles. Enchanting takes on songs like Giya Kancheli's 'A Magic Egg' and Shota Milorava's 'Same Garden' demonstrate the timeless versatility of 1970s Georgian animation scores. The musicians dive into lively improvisations and inject fresh vibrancy into these nostalgic tunes.

Raphaël Pannier's drums are a standout throughout the album, notably on tracks like Sulkhan Tsintsadze’s ‘Dolls Are Laughing’—where his intricate rhythms complement the melody—and Rusudan Sebiskveradze’s ‘Wind Takes It Anyway,’ which features playful exchanges with the piano.

From the serene sorrow of Nodar Gabunia’s ‘To Nodar’ to the emotional waves of Jansug Kakhidze’s ‘The Moon Over Mtatsminda,’ the trio deftly crafts soundscapes that resonate with the listener's soul. Mikadze's original compositions, including ‘Nana’ and 'Satchidao,’ seamlessly intertwine with these reinterpretations, exuding the same magnetic pull and charm as the curated tracks.

A Triumphant Beginning

The album concludes with 'After the Tale,' a composition punctuated by classical elements that crescendo into a thrilling collaborative display. It’s clear that 'Face to Face' is not merely an end product but represents an auspicious starting point for the Giorgi Mikadze Trio’s artistic journey, effectively bridging the gap between jazz enthusiasts and sounds from Georgia's musical landscape.

jazz, album, cultural