Jacques Loussier Plays Bach

I am consistently in awe of anyone who showcases the ability to interpret and perform classical music, but especially when it is done with as much vigor, originality and talent as is the case on Jacques Loussier Plays Bach.

"Little Fugue In G Minor" is a marvel, grabbing you from the get-go and remaining relentless throughout. By contrast, "Concerto in F Minor" is a departure, putting a slightly different spin on things by setting the song to a more modern, pop-infused beat.

"Concerto in C Minor/Adagio" smartly incorporates jazz elements as a backdrop to a lovely, if somber piece, while its "Allegro" counterpart does the same with a high-energy tune that sounds far more like Basie than Bach, and quite frankly left me slightly confused.

"Partita in B Flat Major, Andante - Allemande" returns to the classical thread that seems to become temporarily lost, with a recognizable refrain that is rendered beautifully here. The "Courante" section of the song, however, goes right back to the jazz-meets-classical motif, and that lasts until the end of the album, which just didn't work for me as the two elements conflict with, rather than complement, each other.

Perhaps if more of an emphasis had been placed on the classical nature of the songs, rather than the jazz aspect that is played up too much throughout the album, it might have made more of an impact. But there is just too much of a schizophrenic feel to Jacques Loussier Plays Bach, and it is somewhat of a disappointment.