Recordings

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Rain on the Window

John Surman saxophone

Howard Moody organ

Catalogue number ECM 1986

Released 28th April 2008

...these 15 short pieces find [Surman] at his most reflective, in duet with Howard Moody playing an Oslo church organ. The classically trained Moody doesn't chase Surman's improvising, but sets moods for it. There are typically song-like originals and adaptations, a West Country traditional, and two free improvisations. Surman's vocal-like Circum 1, for soprano sax, suggests the choirboy he once was in pure-toned dialogue with the organ's chords, while the same instrument is breezier over a hurdy-gurdy-like sound on The Old Dutch. The baritone-sax pieces curl like wood smoke over Moody's deep, reverberating hum, and the wry bass clarinet groover Dancing in the Loft finds Surman's melodic ingenuity caressed by high, whistling sounds from the keys. Some pieces whoop and soar over churning rhythms, while Dark Reeds is a slow baritone tone-poem, and the traditionals O Waly Waly and I'm Troubled in Mind are hauntingly solemn.

Four stars: John Fordham, The Guardian

This is music of rare sensibility. Fifteen tracks, each one a miniature fashioned with extraordinary care and joy, shared with organist Howard Moody. Far from being a junior partner here, Moody provides the deeper darker hues that make these pictures so compelling. This is one of Surman’s most atmospheric albums, which given his output to date makes for the highest recommendation.

Four stars: Jazzwise

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Beethoven: Sonatas for Piano and Cello

David Watkin cello

Howard Moody piano

Catalogue number CHAN0561

Released 1st October 1999

If you're not sure about the advantages of original-instrument performance of classical chamber music, try this disc! Watkin and Moody demonstrate that 'authentic' Beethoven need not in any way diminish the grandeur and emotional depth of his music.

Gramophone