ObliqSound
2008
Travel Notes
About This Album
Alon Yavnai's second recording as a leader reflects his heritage as a native Israeli, as he plays music with a spiritual base that is brought into modern times. There are distinct parallels between Yavnai's music and that of Avishai Cohen, Sam Barsh, Fahir Atakoglu, and Plamen Karadonev in that their foundation lies in their ethnic roots, with jazz as a melodic, but not rhythmic inspiration. Percussionist Jamey Haddad has a lot to do with his, as he employs hands or brushes on drums only -- no sticks. Bassist Omer Avital is also oriented more in a world fusion than mainstream jazz manner, yet the elements of blues and improvisation are freely utilized. What is most striking about Yavnai's music is the sheer imagery he conjures. The title track evokes an arid journey through the Middle East, with Avital playing a little oud. Both "Bayit" and "Yakinton" are based on children's songs, the former in a darker, mysterious mood, the latter in a Biblical folkish hum-along. Yavnai plays solo piano on "Yakinton," the modified, free and traditional lullaby "Numi Numi," a minimalist and beautiful love song "Shir Ahava Tari," and the pensive tribute to Take Toriyama "Sof.
Track List (try tracks 1,3,4,5,6,8 and 10)

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