It’s 60 years since Jazz impresario Gigi Campi from Cologne founded MOD RECORDS , the first independent modern jazz label in Europe – as important as his work with the legendary Kenny Clarke/Francy Boland Big Band. Mod Records became a home for jazz greats like Jutta Hipp, Hans Koller, Emil and Albert Mangelsdorff, Roland Kovac, Lars Gullin and Lee Konitz – and some of them even made their recording debut there!
To celebrate the anniversary here’s what could be the most amazing Jazz box ever produced: The complete collection of all 11 vinyl releases on MOD, reproduced as 10″ and 7″ records with original sleeves plus 4 CDs containing all the tracks from the vinyl discs plus unreleased live sessions.
A lovingly researched 120-page hardcover book presents vintage reviews, fabulous designs and alternative sleeves from the archives of MOD designer Wolfgang Raquet, and incredible photos of German photographer Chargesheimer. Also included is a reprint of the legendary MOD RECORDS poster “Jazz West Germany.”
A fascinating glimpse of the city of Cologne and a daring circle of young people who paved the way for a liberal culture during years of awakening in post-war Germany.
A must for the real jazz afficionado.
“Caterina Valente was at Campi Café, and Karlheinz Stockhausen, Luigi Nono and Romy Schneider, Bruno Maderna and Billie Holiday, Gisela Holzinger and Trude Herr, Maria Callas and Juliette Greco – and of course all the renowned contemporary jazz musicians from America and Europe.” (Ingeborg Drews)