Michel Portal: Echoes of a Master [Mondo Jazz 358-1]

Michel Portal: Echoes of a Master [Mondo Jazz 358-1]

Author: Ludovico Granvassu February 23, 2026 Duration: 1:00:36
A heartfelt tribute to Michel Portal, a rare artist equally at home in jazz and classical music, a prolific film composer, fearless improviser, and true multi-instrumentalist. Drawing on recordings made as leader, co-leader, and sideman, the episode traces a career that helped shape a distinctly European jazz voice—rooted in American traditions yet independent in spirit—while remaining open to global influences, cross-genre dialogue, and boundless sonic exploration. The playlist also features Nels Cline; Richard Galliano; Henri Texier; Emile Parisien; Vincent Peirani; and Miroslav Vitous. Detailed playlist at https://spinitron.com/RFB/pl/21998024/Mondo-Jazz [up to "Surfing with Michel"].

There's a whole universe contained within the word "jazz," and Mondo Jazz is your guided tour through its vast and vibrant constellations. Curated by Ludovico Granvassu, this isn't just a playlist; it's an exploration of the genre's endless possibilities, from the foundational blues and swing that started it all to the avant-garde edges where new rules are written. Each episode feels like a conversation with a deeply knowledgeable friend, one who connects the dots between a classic Miles Davis recording, a contemporary Nordic ensemble, and the Brazilian rhythms that subtly influenced both. You'll hear the stories behind the music, not as dry history lessons, but as living narratives that explain why a particular solo still feels revolutionary decades later. This podcast thrives on context and discovery, making each listening session an education in sound. It’s for anyone who has ever felt a standard was just the beginning of the story or wondered where the spirit of improvisation would travel next. Tune in and let Ludovico expand your map of this ever-evolving musical world, one thoughtfully curated set at a time.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Mondo Jazz
Podcast Episodes
Kirk Knuffke, Anat Fort, Bram de Looze, Bob Wellins & More [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:58
Another stack of recent and upcoming albums to soundtrack the week ahead, kicking off with three stunners by Kirk Knuffke, Bram de Looze, and Anat Fort’s compelling take on the dreamworld of Paul Motian. The playlist fea…