Ivan Farmakovsky: Epic Power

STEEPLECHASE RECORDS (RELEASED AUGUST 8, 2025)

A jazz pianist born and raised in Russia dreams of recording with bassist Christian McBride and drummer Jack DeJohnette. That dream came true in 2010, and the results of that encounter are now available on Ivan Farmakovsky’s Epic Power. This third release from Farmakovsky confirms why he is considered to be among the most skillful pianists and interesting composers on the current Russian jazz scene. Apart from Lennon and McCartney’s “And I Love Her,” the remaining eight tunes on Epic Power are Farmakovsky originals, which although inspired in part by Russian music have the feel of classic jazz tunes. Epic Power may very well describe the opening track, “Soul Inside Out,” with its aggressive and modal feel, but most of the release is much more reflective, at times reminding me of classic Bill Evans Trio sessions. Like Evans, Farmakovsky begins ballads such as “The Day Before,” “My Beloved” and “Orange” ruminating on the melodies and harmonies he has created. There is even an Evan-esque quality to his jazz waltz titled “Conciliation” that features a wonderfully crafted solo from McBride. One can hear the influence of Scott LaFaro and Paul Motian or Eddie Gomez and Marty Morell as McBride and DeJohnette (who recorded with Evans) provide tasteful and captivating support to Farmakovksy’s melodies and improvisations. This is especially true on the ballads as it is on the soulful and bluesy “Professor” and the Latin groove of “Lazy Lady.” DeJohnette’s drum solo on “Smile Toys” is the perfect bridge between Farmakovsky’s delicate piano introduction and the medium swing rhythm that follows. Like great wine, this session has been aging for more than 15 years, and it is nice to finally savor the intoxicating sounds of Farmakovsky, McBride and DeJohnette on Epic Power.

(Note: Although the pianist’s name is spelled Farmakovskiy on the cover, the real spelling of his name is Farmakovsky.)

BOTTOM LINE: Add Ivan Farmakovsky to your list of Russian pianists deserving of wider recognition. Recorded in 2010 with bassist Christan McBride and drummer Jack DeJohnette, Epic Power highlights and music and individualism of Farmakovsky as well as tasteful and dynamic interplay of the trio on eight Farmakovsky originals and a tune from Lennon and McCartney.