tangible Assets

The 1968 debut album from Norwegian guitar legend Terje Rypdal stands as a significant entry in the late 1960s jazz landscape, exemplifying the transition from psychedelic rock to a more intricate, freeform blend of jazz elements. Collaborating with legendary musicians like Jan Garbarek, Rypdal's work on this album showcases his innovative talent. Recorded during three sessions in Oslo in 1968, Bleak House marks Rypdal’s departure from the psychedelic group The Dream as he ventured into new musical territories. He would go on to become one of the most recognizable instrumentalists in European jazz, with releases on the ECM label filled with his searing, evocative guitar sounds that evoke a future tundra. Though only 21 at the time, Rypdal was already creating music that was incredibly mature, smooth, and sophisticated. While it undeniably captures the essence of the 60s, it remains enjoyable today. The album, originally released on Polydor, features slight Latin and blues influences, along with big-band arrangements that are both well-crafted and enchantingly loose. The reissue of Bleak House offers much to unpack. Historically, it represents a bridge in the European transition from jazz-rock to a unique avant-garde/free jazz hybrid. Even at this early point in his career, Rypdal's ability to incorporate post-bop, fusion, and avant-garde elements into a cohesive album was an impressive feat of imagination. Rypdal has always been a bold composer, capable of weaving intoxicatingly discordant melodies, as exemplified in tracks like "Winter Serenade", or evoking an unearthly sadness in his more reflective pieces. Bleak House is a timeless and important recording, and it is a pleasure to hear it in this 180g virgin vinyl format. A must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of modern jazz. A1 - Dead Man’s Tale A2 - Wes A3 - Winter Serenade?/ a. Falling Snow?/ b. Snow Storm?/ c. Melting Snow B1 - Bleak House B2 - Sonority B3 - A Feeling Of Harmony

Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.net

Gary Bartz (alto & soprano sax, vocals) - Charles Mims (piano, syntheziser) - Curtis Robertson (electric bass, back vocals) - Howard King (drums). A fantastic live recorded in Bremen on 8th November 1975 set from reedman Gary Bartz – captured here with his ultra-hip NTU group – who you might know from their classic albums on Milestone in the 70s! 1 hour and 46 minutes of free and spiritual jazz.

Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.net

We are pleased to announce the upcoming reissue of “Min Bul”, a milestone of Norwegian rock and jazz, included in the renowned Nurse With Wound list, from the band whose leader was a young Terje Rypdal. Recorded in the Rosenborg studio in September 1970, with Egil Eide as engineer, “Min Bul” is a highly experimental work for its time that grew out of the Samklang projects at the Henie-Onstad Art Center, where director Ole Henrik Moe encouraged adventurous composers and improvising musicians to join forces. The album features Rypdal playing electric (and also overdubbs on soprano sax), often scratchy, and even noisy fusion on the edge of avant-garde jazz, alongside talented jazz musicians Bjornar Andresen (bass) and Espen Rud (percussion). The trio's experimental approach reshapes the landscape of jazz-rock and free improvisation, setting a precedent for future explorations in these genres. The opening track, "I Cried A Million Tears Last Night", is a compelling introduction to the album's dynamic range, reminiscent of the innovative work of contemporaries like Miles Davis. "Min Bul" invites listeners into an exhilarating world of sound where powerful riffs and avant-garde improvisation meet. Notable tracks such as "Champagne Of Course" and "Strange Beauty" exemplify the trio's ability to create engaging musical narratives filled with depth and texture. Alongside John McLaughlin's "Extrapolation" and the early records of Larry Coryell, "Min Bul" is one of the major guitar-oriented Avant Jazz Rock albums, infused with a darker, psychedelic streak. This reissue honors the spirit of the ultra rare original album with a gatefold cover and recordings provided by Universal Music. It also aims to reach the ears of a new generation of listeners who have not yet discovered Terje Rypdal's extraordinary contributions. 180g Virgin Vinyl pressing from Pallas / Germany 350g. Gatefold cover Recorded in Oslo, Norway, September, 1970. A1 - I Cried A Mllion Tears Last Night A2 - Invocation A3 - Champagne Of Course B1 - Ved Sørevatn B2 - Nøtteliten B3 - Strange Beauty

Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.net

We are excited to announce the first reissue of Tony Scott's iconic “Manteca” album originally released in 1973. This 180-gram vinyl audiophile edition captures the essence of a true master of contaminated jazz, allowing listeners to experience Tony Scott's vibrant artistry like never before. Originally described in the album’s liner notes by Sam Charters, "Manteca" embodies the spirit of the jazz musician’s journey—a testament to durability, warmth, and exuberance. Charters notes, “You have to be durable these days to be a jazz man... a musician like Tony Scott has the kind of personality that it takes to be a jazz man today” — a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates the artist's incredible career. From the bustling club scene of New York in the 1950s to captivating audiences in Japan, Scott's journey brought him to Sweden in the summer of 1973, where he collaborated with exceptional local musicians. The result was a collection of vibrant, uptempo jazz tracks combined with reflective ballads, showcasing the remarkable versatility and inventiveness of Scott's clarinet, baritone, and even his distinctive scat vocals. The album opens with the titular track "Manteca," setting an exhilarating tone that endures until the final, almost sinister note of "One For Topsy." Complemented by an all-star lineup, including bassist Sture Nordin, drummer Ed Thigpen and legendary percussionist Sabu Martinez, this session embodies the international spirit of jazz—a genre that transcends boundaries and unites souls. This audiophile edition has been meticulously remastered to provide an unparalleled listening experience, preserving the authenticity of the original while ensuring superior sound quality. With only a limited amount produced, this vinyl reissue is a must-have for collectors and jazz aficionados alike. Join us in celebrating the reemergence of Tony Scott's "Manteca," a true landmark in jazz history, and immerse yourself in the dynamic sounds that have inspired generations. First official vinyl reissue 180g virgin vinyl pressing from Pallas / Germany 350g. cover Original artwork and liner notes Recorded in Stockholm in 1973 A1 - Manteca A2 - 'Round Midnight A3 - Lemon Drop B1 - Billie's Bounce B2 - Lover Man B3 - One For Topsy

Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.net