
The 1970s represented an era dominated by pianists, with figures such as Billy Joel, Elton John, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Jan Hammer, and Jarrett being notable examples. While Keith Jarrett’s albums like “Solo Concerts: Bremen/Lausanne,” from 1973, showcase more technical flair than “The Köln Concert” (with its contrapuntal elements reminiscent of J.S. Bach but with a gospel feel), it’s “The Köln Concert” that encapsulates the laid-back spirit of the time. Despite its lively energy, it radiates a calming, soothing ambiance. In certain moments, it evokes the tranquil atmospheres that made George Winston, the new age pianist, popular, and in others, it resembles an impressionistic painting capturing the most stunning sunset you’ve ever seen. As a pianist, Jarrett was like a soulful blend of Rachmaninoff and a free-jazz emoter. In “The Köln Concert,” he crafted an exuberant improvisation that has been listened to for half a century as a form of relaxation, offering music for blissful contemplation.