Richard Galliano and Thierry Escaich - Aria

The Guardian 80

(Jade)

What kind of jazz, you might ask, could be produced by a duo of accordion and church organ? By any conventional definition, the answer would be, none at all. Except, that is, for the fact that this music is largely improvised, with the instruments taking the lead by turns. Listened to with that in mind, these 13 pieces are full of interest. Galliano, of course, is a master of this genre, and a virtuoso of the accordion. Escaich is new to me. Together they create a fascinating patchwork of colours and textures. The best parts are those with the accordion to the fore and the organ shimmering in the background.