What an interesting playing and
composing style with strong individuality and personality as its
main characteristics.
Most of the pieces are composed
by Bolle himself. It is played on the acoustic accordion with
no electric devices nor other instruments. One track only is a
duet with Australian accordionist Anthony Schultz. Pieces performed
are of the lighter character, some of them are popular tunes arranged
by Bolle and most of them are Bolle's own compositions.
It is not easy to precisely define
Bolle's playing style. It is not traditional accordion entertainment
although he does play popular tunes. He plays it in his own style
and gives it a very individual dimension. Track No 2 for example:
after a short intro where you can hear the ocean, birds and waves,
Bolle starts the well known theme "Umbrellas of Cherbourgh" well
below the traditional tempo but with overwhelmingly deep melancholy
presenting this popular melody in a totally different light which
I found most appealing. What follows are his variations on that
theme building it up dramatically.
Bolle's interpretation and performing
manner touches with its emotionality and spirituality. The words
I would use to describe his playing would be: feelings, space,
melancholy, and picture sequences. It is impossible to put into
words the simplicity, beauty and pleasantness of his style - you
have to hear it for yourself.
The only wish I have is for a bit
more accurate bellows changes at times.
Bolle's musical individuality and
personality is remarkable, I personally was touched by it and
I highly recommend this recording.****
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