Acclaimed Russian-born saxophonist and composer Lena Bloch returns with Marina, a striking new album out November 14, 2025 via Fresh Sound Records. Featuring her quintet with vocalist Kyoko Kitamura, pianist Jacob Sacks, bassist Ken Filiano, and drummer Michael Sarin, the album reimagines the poetry of 20th-century Russian poet Marina Tsvetaeva in a vibrant jazz suite commissioned by Chamber Music America.
Bloch’s approach sets her own English translations of Tsvetaeva’s works to music, blending improvisation, composition, and intimate storytelling. “Tsvetaeva’s themes resonate with me as a lifelong nomad,” says Bloch. “Her work celebrates strength and the power to speak freely despite all circumstances—qualities that inspire this album.”
The album opens with “Refuse,” where Filiano’s plaintive bass and Kitamura’s impassioned vocals echo Tsvetaeva’s defiance, and continues through lush, dynamic tracks like “Insomnia” and “Such Tenderness.” Bloch and Kitamura’s interplay highlights emotion, nuance, and musical sensitivity, particularly in pieces like “Tired,” “Immeasurable,” and the title track, where spoken and sung text converge to powerful effect. Marina closes with “The Time Will Come,” a testament to endurance and the lasting power of art.
Since moving to New York in 2008, Bloch has established herself as a prominent figure in the city’s jazz scene, performing internationally and leading ensembles including her Feathery Quartet. With Marina, she brings Tsvetaeva’s poetry to life for a modern audience, fusing Eastern European influences, contemporary jazz, and improvisational brilliance into an album full of heart, intimacy, and profound musical depth.
Bloch will celebrate the release with an album concert on Saturday, November 15 at IBeam in Brooklyn, NY.
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