Originally released in 1975, Norwegian jazz singer Karin Krog’s We Could Be Flying has long been called an underrated masterpiece. Although Krog is listed as the sole leader on the album, pianist Steve Kuhn’s presence is felt throughout. Composing four out of nine tunes and playing on all nine, the New York pianist’s brand of mellow jazz is on full display from beginning to end.
Album opener and title track “We Could Be Flying” sets the tone for the record, as spiritual chimes and rolling piano arpeggios make way for a gentle groove, over which Krog’s vocals soar. “The Meaning of Love” is a Kuhn composition, and sees the pianist take an understated, yet fantastic solo. However, the true highlights are the bass playing from Steve Swallow and drumming from John Christensen. The two are perfectly locked in, and you can practically imagine the two of them locking eyes as they create a rhythmic bedrock.
The cover of Joni Mitchell’s “All I Want”, is another highlight of the record, with 70’s sensibilities oozing from practically every aspect of the performance. Despite that, the track has aged well, and perfectly shows the interplay between Krog and the immensely talented rhythm section.
That’s not to say that the rest of the record is lacking in any way. From the loungey interpretation of Carla Bley’s “Sing Me Softly Of The Blues”, to the danceable samba-inspired “Raindrops, Raindrops” and “Hold Out Your Hand”, fans of all kinds of jazz are sure to be delighted from beginning to end. Reissued on vinyl with an obi-strip for the first time ever, this record is a must-have for any jazz fan!
