U.S. DEBUT FROM KÁLMÁN OLÁH IN JUNE

[bobmerlis]

In its first foray into straight ahead jazz, Memphis International Records announces the June 16th release of Always from The Kálmán Oláh Trio featuring Jack DeJohnette and Ron McClure. A native of Hungary, pianist Kálmán Oláh has gained international renown as an artist who masterfully combines elements of jazz, folk and contemporary classical music. The title song of the forthcoming album earned Oláh the 2006 Grand Prize in the BMI-sponsored Thelonious Monk International Jazz Composer’s Competition.

The new album, his first U.S. release finds backed by drummer Jack DeJohnette and bassist Ron McClure. DeJohnette, who met Oláh in Budapest several years ago, is effusive in his praise, stating in the liner notes to Always, ““When Kálmán swings, he does it authentically, it’s soulful and sophisticated, as well.”

While Kálmán Oláh is a new name to American audiences, he’s a seasoned player having appeared in Europe with score of well-known artists including Lee Konitz, Randy Brecker, Pat Metheny, Steve Grossman, John Patitucci, Tommy Campbell, Stefano Di Battista, Jay Leonhart, Daniel Humair, Andrej Ceccarelli, Paolo Fresu, Kenny Wheeler and many others.

Born in Budapest of Romany (Gypsy) parentage and, Oláh graduated from the Béla Bartok Conservatory, completing his musical studies at Franz Liszt Music University, where he is a current member of the jazz faculty. During his student years, his unique, ecumenical approach gained him widespread recognition, winning numerous awards at competitions both in Hungary and abroad including the Great American Jazz Piano Competition in Jacksonville, Florida.

Always track list (all songs written by Kálmán Oláh except as noted)
1. Always
2. Polymodal Blues – Homage to Béla Bartok
3. Hungarian Sketches
4. All of You (Cole Porter)
5. How My Heart Sings (Earl Zindars)
6. Interlude 2
7. Stella By Starlight (Victor Young, Ned Washington)
8. Elegy