JazzPress “Hope” really brings hope

More and more frequently, when reviewing albums recorded in the piano-bass-drums trio format, I feel an underlying unease. Will I once again have to point out minor or major imitations, the usual correctness of a well-worn formula, or reminisce about groundbreaking jazz trio concepts? However, this time, dear readers, I will refrain from any of those extravagant comments already immortalized in the pages of JazzPRESS. Hope truly brings hope!

I must admit, without delving into the specifics of each track, that as a coherent, well-thought-out whole, this album made a strong impression on me. Even though much of the material contained here falls within the realm of regular, mainstream jazz, the dynamics of the storytelling, the richness of the arrangements, the complexity of the solo parts, and – attention! – the inventiveness of the original compositions are all elements that genuinely drew me in. Also, in terms of production and the overall sound, there is something about this album that envelops the listener, creating an intimate atmosphere – to the point where it feels as if the musicians (leader on piano, Paweł Urowski on bass, Krzysztof Szmańda on drums) are playing just in front of the listener.

What is particularly exciting and pleasing is the growing presence of female energy in Polish jazz. More and more female leaders are emerging – and at last they are no longer only vocalists (it’s worth noting here that Ilona Damięcka does also offer a vocal track on this album — and quite a lovely one at that). Regardless of the performers’ gender, Hope features exceptional sounds that with their lightness surprise and touch the listener in the most noble way. I look forward with great interest to the next projects of Ms. Ilona!

Wojciech Sobczak-Wojeński

JazzPRESS review of Ilona Damięcka Trio – Hope, Soliton, 2020