Reviews

“Walkate confirms his qualities as a composer, arranger, and improviser. The album fits into their previous work, simultaneously expanding its sonic nuances through the prominent role of the vibraphone.”

“You would think that Waring has been a member of the band the whole time… he seamlessly blends into the quartet with his excellent playing. A great album – definitely check this out.”

“With sensitivity and deep emotion, imbued with great elegance, radiating a deep sense of empathy and profound feeling. Another outstanding album.”

“Beautifully and naturally the dialogue between piano and vibraphone flows, allowing you to imagine yourself on a summer terrace, far away from the bleak weather.”

“Evokes the impression of a classic live set delivered in an intimate club setting … Sophisticated material delivered at a very high level.”

“Walkate has created a substantial oeuvre with a unique, accessible style. (…) Café Madrid is another such gem. It deserves a place of honor in the long list of beautiful, often extraordinary music from his group.”

“Walkate has written eleven delightful, often slightly melancholic compositions. They clearly want to give us all something beautiful in a world that really needs it at the moment.”

“Music that invites you to wander, and allows you to appreciate how Walkate ‘dresses’ his compositions and arranges his colors according to the chosen themes.”

“The 11 tracks … offer excellent opportunities for piano/vibraphone interplay.”

“Throughout the album, Harald’s personality shines through, even as he allows Waring’s vibraphone to rise to the start… Piano/vibes pairing at its best.”

“Café Madrid belongs to that rare category of albums that feel immediately personal and quietly universal at the same time… The work of a major contemporary composer.”