New Music Releases: Omar Sosa and Yilian Cañizares, III Considered, Wildflower

Omar Sosa / Yilian Cañizares - Aguas

Pianist Omar Sosa and violinist-vocalist Yilian Cañizares have come together to create Aguas, a beautiful and very personal album. Featuring their compatriot, percussionist Inor Sotolongo, Aguas reflects the perspectives of two generations of Cuban artists living outside their homeland, interpreting their roots and traditions in subtle and unique ways. Songs range from the poignant to the exuberant, and are expressive of the exceptional musical chemistry, poetic sensibilities, and originality of the artists.

III Considered – III Considered 3

We can't get enough of this group – and their unique piano-less style has a different approach to spiritual jazz modes than you might ear from another combo – especially since the drums and percussion are often used in ways that are complicated, but never to free to lose the groove of the tunes! As on other records, there's a fantastic balance here between the tenor work of Idris Rahman, the bass of Leon Brichard, the drums of Emre Ramazanoglu, and percussion of Satin Singh – hard to describe in the way these guys find a very unique, personal space of expression – while still soaring in a way that would be right at home alongside the legacy of Impulse or Strata East. Titles include "Djinn", "Meditation", "Perplexity", "Scatter", "Retreat", and "Incantation". ~ Dusty Groove

Wildflower - Wildflower

Fantastic sounds from this offshoot of the Ill Considered group – a freewheeling trio that features Idris Rahman on saxes and flute, Leon Brichard on bass, and Tom Skinner on drums – a combo that comes together in a very spiritual way! The bass and drums often build up cyclical rhythms in this brooding sort of style – which then allows Rahman to really open up and express himself on the solos – often moving in relatively free, open territory – but still held tightly to the planet by the rhythms! The approach is maybe in the more spiritual side of loft jazz territory – and titles include "Flute Song", "Hogol", "Other Worlds", "Long Way Home", and "Where The Earth Meets The Sky". (Comes in a slim cardboard sleeve.)  ~ Dusty Groove