Lots of artists attempt to mix the enchanting harmonies and rhythms of the Middle East with jazz sensibilities, but they usually fall short in that they either sound too mystical or too kitschy. This one has Mehmet Ali Sanlikol leading a full jazz orchestra as well as a “jazz combo” on a mix and match collection along with some swinging and adventurous guests.
The jazz orchestra Middle East exoticism with New Orleans gumbo as Anat Cohen’s clarinet teams with some exiting charts and moody strings on “The Turkish 2nd Line” while Dave Liebman brings up his soprano sax to team up with Utar Artun’s Tyner-esque piano on the 3 part “Concerto for Soprano Saxophone and Jazz Orchestra In C.” Thrilling stuff!
For the slightly smaller combo, Ali Sanlikol brings bluesy strings and brooding harmonies on”A Dream in Nihavend” while some mystical voices by Nedelka Prescod” while drummer Bertram Lehmann propels a pair of vocalists along the wispy “Whirl Around.”
A “Nyaz Suite” has Antonio Sanchez guesting on drums and driving the team with the ride cymbal through a full scale trudge while the reeds writhe, slowly turning into a dervish and brass and reeds sliding, gliding and crying out. The closing”Love Theme From Ergenekon” is almost operatic in its change of moods, veering from reflection to agony to thoughtful repose. The juxtaposition of moods and themes is a gloriously undulating kaleidoscope of sounds, and needs to be listened to multiple times to be fully, or at least partially appreciated. One for the books!
Dunya Records