Jacques Loussier revisits Bach in Germany

When Jacques Loussier, the French pianist and composer, played The Subway club in Cologne with a red shirt and a beer in hand, it was an unexpected sound that spilled out into the streets above. The year was 1997 and Loussier had built a reputation as a jazz pianist who combined improvised virtuosity with his passion for the greats of classical music. Though he tackled many repertoires in his time, it was that of Johann Sebastian Bach that most gripped him. 

In the late 1950s he formed a trio called Play Bach that achieved the kind of success that few jazz musicians dream of, with over seven million records sold to date. Clearly, this magic combination had a hungry audience and it set Loussier up for a life of touring, interpreting and innovating a signature blend of two styles known for their sophistication and histories. 

Here, he shows exceptional technique and personality, bringing a new and intriguing expression to that heavenly music.