A beautiful and seriously underrated slice of Belgian and European jazz, Song For René can be seen as a continuation of the highly regarded Open Sky Unit, recorded and released the previous year in 1974. That earlier project brought together Jacques Pelzer, his daughter Micheline Pelzer, American pianist and vocalist Ron Wilson, and Michel Graillier, creating a fascinating meeting point between Belgian European jazz and American influences.
Song For René takes that spirit a step further, with Micheline Pelzer now firmly established behind the drums and Michel Graillier on piano, alongside Alby Cullaz on bass and Jacques Pelzer on alto and soprano saxophone and flute. Recorded live at the Festival de Huy in May 1975, the album blends lyrical post-bop, modal passages and more exploratory European jazz.
There is a wonderful sense of freedom throughout the record, from the hypnotic “Naima” to the beautifully atmospheric “Simone”, while “Face Reality” brings a more driving, energetic feel. The title track “Song For René”, composed by Michel Graillier in memory of legendary Belgian guitarist René Thomas, provides a particularly poignant closing statement.
For anyone into the deeper side of European jazz from the 1970s, this is a beautiful follow-up to Open Sky Unit and an important chapter in the Pelzer family story.
Record is Near Mint / Sleeve is Near Mint
