Classical trained guitar and pianist Itamar Erez mixes jazz and Mediterranea on this charming and fluid collection of virtuosity with a collection of like minded artists. There’s a core of James Meger/b and Kevin Romain/dr along with guests Ilan Salem/fl, Celso Machado-Hamin HOnari- Dan Benedikt/perc and Francois Houle/cl in a mix and match format.
Erez’s nylon strings are festive on the intricate and lyrical “Requinto” and longing for the lovely “Tides” in a small band format, while his solo on “Choro Sentimental” is a gorgeous serenade. His ivories flow on the Middle Eastern “Samai” and dances with the landscape for “Endless Cycle.” With Salem’s flute, the team prances on “Mi Alegria” and gives some post bop pulses with Houle’s stick during the worldly “Shesh.” Folk moods crying under the open starry sky take place with strings and reeds getting mystical for “Yahli’s Lullaby.” This is an optimistic and forward looking team. If they hit the West Coast, please let me know!