Miroslav Vitous Group

Miroslav Vitous Group

Between 1979 and 1982, the Miroslav Vitous Group was the primary outlet for the abundant improvisational skills of leader Vitous and John Surman. They made three ECM albums: this eponymously-titled disc from 1980 is the middle one. Vitous and Surman were well-matched in lots of ways, with roots and influences that extended beyond jazz, a love of playing freely, a commitment to using all the sound potential of their respective instruments: Surman singing at the top of the baritone saxs range to match Miroslavs fiddle-like arco flourishes on the double bass. The redoubtable Jon Christensen shared their passion for playing, as did Kenny Kirkland, just 24 at the time of this session, on his way to becoming one of modern jazzs outstanding pianists. Repertoire includes classic Miroslav pieces (When Face Gets Pale), collective improvising, and an early sighting of Surmans relentlessly driving Number Six