Songs for Quintet
Songs for Quintet is the final studio album by flugelhornist and composer Kenny Wheeler recorded at Abbey Road Studios in 2013 and released on the ECM label in early 2015 shortly after his death. Reception The AllMusic review by Matt Collar states "Ultimately, Songs for Quintet is a beautiful and poignantly subtle farewell from one of the quiet giants of jazz". PopMatterss John Garratt said "Wheeler’s final album shows the 84-year-old legend making music the same way he always had—with class, mood and spontaneity. And if Wheeler’s declining health at the time impacted his playing in any way, Songs for Quintet show it to be a remarkable non-factor. If someone can pull off an album like this while they’re dying, then there’s hope for us all". All About Jazz reviewers said, "Songs for Quintet is a poignant closing statement from the great, highly influential Kenny Wheeler. His playing, though somewhat reduced, still captivates but like all his vehicles he led over forty five years the music's strength lies in the writing for the ensemble. A grower, Songs for Quintet marks a dignified and soulful final chapter in the stellar career of a unique figure" and "It's impossible to know if