Polish trumpeter Tomasz Stanko can be recognized immediately by his tone and manner of playing. Stanko first came into contact with jazz through the famous Voice of America radio broadcasts. In 1975, he formed the Tomasz Stanko-Adam Makowicz Unit, a lineup that became well known outside Poland as well. Stanko has worked with stars like Jack DeJohnette, Dave Holland, Lester Bowie, David Murray, Manu Katché and Chico Freeman, and he played in Cecil Taylor's big band. In the 1990s, he was troubled by problems with his teeth. He made a strong comeback after a period of working hard on his embouchure. Although Stanko was mainly occupied with free jazz for a time, he has since chosen a path that once again allows a great deal of room for the lyricism of his playing. His latest album Dark Eyes comprises original compositions, a lovely tone and cosmopolitan improvisations with which Stanko again proves his standing as a leading European jazz musician.
