Bossa Nuevo
In front of you is a presentation of a year's work - seven masterful arrangements crafted by the group members. From the first notes of percussionist Cody Jensen's tamborim, and, later, the whole arsenal of Brazilian percussion, we delve into the gravity of BOSSA NUEVO's charisma.
Vocalist Holly Holmes' sophisticated vocal technique and personal narrative sets the band free into a cavalcade of harmonic and rhythmical innuendos, the basis of which is guitarist George Turner's guitar work and pianist Lara Driscoll's colorful harmonic palette. Both create a pad, a glue, that encompasses all and doesn't let anything get away unacknowledged. Furthermore, the compositions are introduced by Mikael Templeton, who, as Cody, serves a triple duty by doubling on flute, alto and tenor saxophones. He continues to interpret the melodic information in his solos, which gently compliment Holly's lines.
Underneath it all seats the enchanting work of drummer Matt Plaskota - the drive, and bright energy that he provides willingly and without hesitation puts everyone in overdrive. Last, but not the least, the music dances to the groove of basslines by bassist Karim Yengsep: the solid, almost minimalist, quality of the Bassbrechung is a tribute to the aesthetics of the genres that the band touches upon in this recording.
This project was conceived and produced by bandleader Karim Yengsep, with the help of a Grammy winning saxophonist, arranger, and educator Chip McNeill, and recording engineer Mark Rubel at Pogo Studio in Champaign, Illinois. The album was mastered by the late Jon Schoenoff at Artist Mastering at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Graphic design was created by Jake Thompson, based on a Black & White film photography of David Cubberly that was shot during the first recording session at Pogo Studio.
Bossa Nuevo |