Hekselman, Gilad

Far Star is the new album from Israeli-born and New York based guitarist Gilad Hekselman – a work that explores a new universe rich in colour, limitless in detail and bold in vision. Based for more than 18 years in New York, Gilad has become a well known figure in that highly creative scene, building a unique sound that is both progressive and timeless. With a new approach to music making that has as much to do with the enforced constraints of the pandemic as with any artistic decision, Gilad has produced something that is simply breathtaking. The music has a boldness and simplicity, it’s progressive yet accessible; ultimately it’s a modern and adventurous album with an abundance of detail that offers reward after reward at every listen.

Suite for Modigliani is a homage to a passion that clarinetist Matteo Pastorino has felt since childhood, his passion for Amedeo Modigliani.

Across eleven critically acclaimed albums, Gilad has built a rich discography noted both for his original compositions and captivating instrumental voice. In November 2023, he released his latest LP Trio Grande: Urban Myth in partnership with Will Vinson and Nate Wood. His next album, Life, at the Village Vanguard, is set for April 2024.

'Trio Grande' is the debut statement from a brand new project that unites three of the most innovative, exciting and accomplished musicians working at the interface of New York's contemporary musical culture - British-born saxophonist Will Vinson, Israeli guitarist Gilad Hekselman and Mexico City native, long-time Jackson Heights, Queens resident Antonio Sánchez. The trio first came together at one of the city's legendary club residencies at the Cornelia Street Café, and the chemistry and excitement was immediate. Each brings their own formidable reputation as bandleader and composer in their own right, but when they started playing together, following their impulses with all the freedom afforded by the baseless trio format, they found the music taking on its own creative directions that surprised and delighted them all.

'Trio Grande' is the debut statement from a brand new project that unites three of the most innovative, exciting and accomplished musicians working at the interface of New York's contemporary musical culture - British-born saxophonist Will Vinson, Israeli guitarist Gilad Hekselman and Mexico City native, long-time Jackson Heights, Queens resident Antonio Sánchez.