Sophistication And Simplicity

Composer and saxophonist Amit Friedman positions himself as one of today's leading jazz musicians in Israel. Friedman's compositions, combining sophistication and simplicity that communicate to all listeners, his unique arrangements and renowned playing, have captured a wide and varied audience of devoted jazz fans. The music, while loyal to the jazz tradition, fuses within it elements of world music with a special emphasis on Middle Eastern music. In the Sextet's debut album one can hear all the members of the band shine as soloists as well as a cohesive, mature and energetic ensemble that makes music with a flair and spirit of celebration and love of life.

Lee Konitz is a master of linear playing and a stylist on the highest level. The purity of Konitz intonation – that cool nobility which hasy been present in his playing since the 40s – is famous. Lee Konitz shows in this recording just how exquisite chords can sound even without chord instruments. But we have always known Lee to be one of the greatest spontaneous composers of Jazz. To play without chord instruments is absolutely no problem for a baritone saxophonist of Thomas Zoller’s calibre, it has had its own special fascination ever since the days of the Gerry Mulligan Quintet in the 50’s. Carlo Mombelli (South Africa) and Billy Elgart (USA) give a rhythm team that plays from funky to free with inspiring imagination. The result of this group’s unique partnership is a clear, transparent line. A revelry in counterpoint, modern grooves and sounds that ,sophistication.succeeds as seldom before, in a union of eloquence and fire.