Misha Tsiganov, Painter of Dreams Review

by Stamish Malcuss

In Painter of Dreams, Misha Tsiganov captures the boundless spirit of modern jazz piano, weaving together his classical training and deep immersion in the jazz tradition. Released in July 2024 on the Criss Cross label, this album focuses on his compositional and performance skills, offering listeners an exciting exploration of harmony, melody, rhythm, and ensemble interaction through the landscapes of this ensemble’s imaginations.

From the outset, Painter of Dreams distinguishes itself with its lyrical melodies and interesting harmonic textures. Tsiganov’s classical background is evident in his use of form and structure. Each of Tsiganov’s six compositions on the album is a carefully crafted narrative. “Elusive Dots,” in particular, stands out as an example of his storytelling through music. It begins with a delicate piano and saxophone introduction, gradually building in intensity as the other ensemble members join in, creating a rich, textural setting that mirrors the unfolding of a dream.

The two arrangements on this album are equally striking. Tsiganov’s piano leads the ensemble, but each musician has room to shine, with plenty of space for improvisation and group interactions. His use of dynamics and space is masterful, allowing the music to breathe while maintaining a sense of forward motion. The arrangements “Long Ago And Far Away” and “I Loves You Porgy” highlight his ability to evoke vivid imagery through sound, transporting the listener to different emotional spaces and feelings.

The interaction between Tsiganov and his ensemble is a highlight of Painter of Dreams. His long-time collaborators—bassist Matt Brewer and drummer Johnathan Blake—are integral to the album’s sound. Brewer’s bass provides a solid yet flexible foundation, while Blake’s drumming adds a rhythmic elasticity that pushes the music forward without overpowering it. Sipiagin is outstanding in every selection; his tone and creativity are immense. The chemistry between the group is palpable, especially on tracks like “Chain Of Events,” where their improvisational exchanges feel like a conversation, each instrument responding to the others in real time. Tsiganov’s use of both the Fender Rhodes and Minimoog adds layers of texture, enriching the ensemble’s dynamic interplay.

Special mention must be made of Chris Potter and Miguel Zenón’s saxophone solos, alongside Alex Sipiagin’s contributions on trumpet and flügelhorn. Their contributions and solos add vibrant colors to the album, particularly on tracks like “April,” where Potter’s tenor saxophone contrasts beautifully with Tsiganov’s approach. The delicate vocals of Oosterwijk, featured on select tracks but especially captivating on “Painter Of Dreams,” further enhance the balance between the freedom of improvisation and the discipline of composition, creating a rich and varied sonic landscape.

Tsiganov’s playing invites the listener to join him on his harmonic adventures. His touch on the piano is authoritative and capable of conveying a wide range of emotions—from the lyricism of the flowing waltz, “Seeley Street Song,” to the driving joy of “Long Ago And Far Away.” There’s a subtle, underlying excitement to much of the album.

Technically, Tsiganov is at the top of his game. His improvisations are fluid and inventive, never feeling forced or predictable. He has a remarkable ability to take the listener on a journey within his improvisations, using unexpected harmonic shifts and rhythmic variations to keep the music fresh and exciting.

In Painter of Dreams, Misha Tsiganov’s ability to blend classical influences with jazz improvisation makes this album enjoyable for anyone who appreciates a deeper connection to contemporary jazz. Painter of Dreams offers a compelling and top-shelf performance experience. Tsiganov proves he is a storyteller, painting vivid musical landscapes of contemporary jazz.