David Buchbinder (Trumpet; Flugelhorn);
Hilario Duran (Piano) John Johnson(Clarinet, Tenor and Soprano Saxes, Alto
Flute); Aleksandar Gajic (Violin, Viola); Roberto Occhipinti (Bass, Guitar (3));
Mark Kelso (Drums, Bata, Percussion); Michael Cohen (Vocal (2); Maryem Hassan
Tollar (Vocals (3,5,9); Joaquin Nunez Hidalgo (Congas, Dumbeq, Bata, Chekere
(1-3, 7-9); Jamey Haddad (Riq, Frame Drum, Dumbeq (3-6); Bassam Bishara ( Oud
(3); Demetrios Petsalakis ( Oud (5);
Elmer Ferrer ( Tres (4).
(Review by
Steve H.)
This album is an unlikely fusion of Jewish and
Cuban traditions - a kind of Kosher Tapas one might say. The group is led by
its two composers - Canadian trumpeter
David Buchbinder and Cuban pianist
Hilaro Duran.
A Klezmer style opening to the album Coffee Works soon embraces all the joys
of the Latin oeuvre. Landrico is
a reworking by Duran of a traditional
Spanish tune where an unaccompanied vocal
soon develops into a seriously good jazz number. Aventuria Judea is a highly enjoyable lively Latin number with a
fine tenor solo from Johnson and some adventurous ensemble playing. Laroza Una has a spiritual feel to it with superb vocals
by Maryem Hassan Tollar .
The title track Walk to the Sea is a
cracking trumpet led number with both the Klezmer and Latin influences apparent
throughout. Another vocal number La Rosa
Dos follows again sung with great feeling by Tollar. Valentin is a melodious trumpet led
ballad. The penultimate track Calliope
is a romantic Latin swinging number and the album concludes with Conja an emotional vocal combines with
uplifting beats and a great violin solo from Gajic leaves the listener on a
high.
This album is a triumph: a cocktail of genres encompassing Jazz, Cuban and Judeo Spanish traditions. Think
of Chicken Soup for starters, Paella for Main course and Flan De Cuba for
dessert all accompanied by the odd Mojito or two. It may seem like a gastronomic no-no but I
assure you it is not only fulfilling but also absolutely delicious.
Steve H.
1 comment :
Another great review Steve H.
I feel the enthusiasm you have for music as i read this.
I particularly like your references to food and culture, and the coming together of the two.
Keep up the good work.
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