Harry Belafonte:

"I remember the great artist Charles Laughton once saying that the depth of great art can be measured by its unpredictability. At the time this insight was imparted, it was to a group of actors bringing to life the characters of a play. But I have come to learn that this wisdom

does not limit itself to the confines of thespian expression. When one examines the great casts of players that have emerged from the drama of jazz, no matter how varied their styles, from Louis Armstrong to Miles Davis, Jelly Roll Morton to Thelonious Monk, from Ben Webster to Charlie Parker the one ingredient most common to their greatness is the unpredictability of their art. And just when you think you've heard it all, someone new and unpredictable comes along. Welcome Jean-Michel Pilc.

Beyond all that can be said about his masterful technique and his beauty of touch, it is the unpredictability that is central to his remarkable talent. As one listens to each selection, be they vintage or newborn, one is taken into his world of improvisation where the unexpected is constant. What makes the journey even more stimulating is the indelible contribution made by the astounding bassist, Francois Moutin, and a phenomenal drummer, Ari Hoenig. The swift current of improvisation that passes through each frame of music is beautifully evoked by the three artists so well suited for each other.

I have heard them play many times and at the end of each visit, I find myself with awakened expectations for my next encounter with the unpredictable."