Neonila Lagodyuk. Pershi kroky u svit dzhazu. Oryhinal'ni dzhazovi kompozyciji dlja fortepiano. (The first steps toward jazz. Original jazz compositions for piano)

An extremely light and transparent record – though one would not say that it is easy music. Actually, jazz is never too simple – even if it looks so. That is what we may observe in music by Neonila Lagodjuk – simplicity that appears as a result of extensive experience and persevering work. In the name of the album, the first steps in the world of jazz are mentioned – for a reason. Since Neonila Lagodjuk is not only a composer – and a very prolific one – but she is also a teacher. So, she wonderfully understands how important the basis is – the first steps much talked about. And she very expressively makes it clear that even basics of jazz piano playing are an extremely rich, varied field for creative imagination. You will hear here two dozens of original pieces. Quite small by their size, they cover a wide emotional and style palette – and attract with their sincerity. As if drops of dew in a solar morning, they smile to meet wide-open eyes – drink, it is pure water. To me, for example, the laconic plays remind Japanese haikus. So, if laconic beauty is close to you, do not pass by – listen.

Anton Jozhik Leyba (Hedgehog)

Unfortunately the quality of recording is not very good. We decided to present this CD on the web site because it may be interesting for many admirers of Ukrainian music.