Name: Chiaroscuro
Brand: Ralph Towner

Tax rate EU

Default:19

Supplier EU

Universal Music GmbH

Total Cap

Format detail

Colour details

Discogs ID

Limited edition

Colour

Format Music EU

Extended format

Extended format: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Download code

Download code: No

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Release date

2009-11-06

Format multiplier

Catalogue number

1797510

UPC / Barcode

602517975101

Artist

Ralph Towner

Label EU

Ecm Records

Genre EU

ECM Records, also known as "The Creative Label," is a German independent label that was co-founded by producer Manfred Eicher, Manfred Scheffner, and Karl Egger in Munich (Pasing) in 1969. With the label code LC 2516 / LC 02516, ECM stands for Edition of Contemporary Music and focuses on jazz and Western classical music. They showcase both acoustic and electronic artists who produce eclectic versions of contemporary music.

ECM's extensive catalog features a wide range of genres, from contemporary works by renowned composers like Steve Reich, Arvo Pärt, and Philip Glass to experimental and electronic jazz from artists such as Nils Petter Molvær, Pat Metheny Group, and Jan Garbarek. Over the past 40+ years, ECM has released more than 1500 recordings that have been acclaimed for their exceptional music quality, creative production techniques, and outstanding sound.

Although an independent label, ECM titles are distributed by Universal Music Group (UMG) in the US, Japan, and throughout Europe. However, they have also collaborated with other distributors over the years. Notably during the period when Polydor distributed ECM products in Germany; [l447694] was used for pressing identified by a CP suffix on labels and runouts. Afterward,[l25946] became their primary distributor.

Ralph Towner is a US-American multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger and bandleader. He was born in Chehalis, Washington on March 1, 1940. With his exceptional talent and versatility, Towner has established himself as one of the most influential figures in contemporary jazz and classical music.

Towner's unique musical style blends elements of jazz, folk, and classical genres to create captivating compositions that showcase his virtuosity on various instruments. As a member of the renowned group *Oregon*, he has collaborated with fellow musicians such as *Eberhard Weber*, *Bobo Stenson Trio*, *Terje Rypdal*, and many others.

Throughout his illustrious career, Towner has released numerous critically acclaimed albums both as a solo artist and with various ensembles. His innovative approach to composition and improvisation has earned him widespread recognition and accolades from audiences and critics alike. Experience the mesmerizing sounds of Ralph Towner's music today.

Newest Listed Items

The debut album from a duo with a most uncommon instrumentation, acoustic guitar and trumpet - but it's a highly attractive combination. Ralph Towner, guitarist extraordinaire, an ECM artist since 1972, is joined by Italian trumpet star Paolo Fresu, making his label debut for ECM. Bright melodies and subtle colours prevail in a programme of old and new Ralph Towner compositions, plus improvisations, and a favourite from Kind of Blue era Miles Davis. The choice of "Blue in Green" as the sole cover version here says something about the aesthetic priorities of both musicians. These are players who understand the power of silence and melodic clarity. Fresu's trumpet playing, with his clear vibratoless sound, has often been compared with that of Miles Davis. Towner first encountered Fresu 15 years ago, at a festival in Sardinia where the guitarist had been commissioned to write music for an ensemble. Paolo was the trumpet player. "From the first phrase he played I thought: wow, this guy really understands melodies!" The piece played that day, "Punta Giara", is revisited here. "Sacred Place" and "Doubled Up" are the first recordings to feature Ralph's new baritone guitar, tuned a fifth below standard guitar tuning. The instrument, reaching down for the deep notes, wonderfully balances Fresu's flugelhorn. Elsewhere Ralph's classical guitar sings in its unique way. Perfect moments, like a flaring of fireworks. Chiaroscuro is Ralph Towner's 22nd album as a leader for ECM, in a discography with well over 30 titles. Alongside the landmark recordings like Diary, Solstice and Batik, this one has all the hallmarks of a classic. Personnel: Ralph Towner (classical, baritone and 12-string guitars), Paolo Fresu (trumpet, flugelhorn)

Chiaroscuro

Music EU