Remembering Bix

In a blindfold test it would be easy to identify pianist Steve Kuhn's CD as a stereotypical ECM recording. With its emphasis on space, rather slow development and occasional repetition, the performances of Kuhn, bassist David Finck and drummer Joey Baron (all but one of the 11 pieces are Kuhn originals) only occasionally rise above the level of background music. There are some heated moments on the sixth song ("All the Rest Is the Same") and the tenth ("Bittersweet Passages") but most of this set is rather sleepy and melancholy, not living up to the potential of these talented musicians.

Formed in 1970 in Martigues, Nirvana is quickly emerging as the great hope of the local scene. Their psychedelic music is perfectly in tune with the times and opens the door to all the venues and festivals in the region. In 1973, it is the consecration when the group wins the springboard of Golf Druot. The national press is now interested in the combo that goes up to the first part of prestigious group like Martin Circus or "Amon Düül II". An album project is born and the tours follow each other throughout the year 1974. The critics are laudatory but the band, faces financial difficulties and will end up throwing in the towel in 1976 after recording 2 titles in the studio…