Jazz legend David Liebman mixes post bop jazz along with Middle Eastern themes on this ambitious album having him lead the CNY Jaz Orchestra. The album’s feature is a four part composition from Bret Zvacek entitled “If A White Horse From Jerusalem” that includes bright and exotic moods on “Ahava Raba” elegiac calls to prayer on “Allahu Allahu/Maqam Awj Ara” and a sizzle dance in the circle on “ Ki Lo Noeh/Maqam Saba”. Liebman’s soprano takes the part of shofar at times, and other moments that of a cantor, then creating crescent moons of glowing late night atmosphere. The mix of Semitic and swing is as delicious as za’atar on bread.
Also included is a flavorful and glorious read of “Somewhere” featuring Charles Pillows warm alto, a bebopping “ Hip-Hop Scuffle” and an easy paced read of “When Or When”. The rich harmonies from the brass mix the modern and Mediterranean like a glowing sunset. Fresh sounds from a man who proves to continue to be one of the living masters.