7 Shades Of Melancholia
Dunya, 2025
8/10
Listen to 7 Shades Of Melancholia
The Grammy nominated pianist and composer Mehmet Ali Sanlikol is joined by James Heazlewood-Dale, George Lernis, Ingrid Jensen and Liki Haruvi-Means or these jazz, classical and prog-rock fueled 7 tracks.
“A Children’s Song” starts the listen with Sanlikol’s fluid keys alongside Lernis’ agile drumming for the melodic and warm gestures, and “One Melancholic Montuno” follows with Jensen’s soulful trumpet adding much richness to the cautious climate.
In the middle, “Huseyni Jam” uses vocals like an instrument amid the dizzying keys, while “Nikriz Semai” is a calmer moment via the cozy piano, expressive singing and Heazlewood-Dale’s precise bass for the cultured album highlight.
“My Blues” exits, and it’s an intimate moment thanks to the emotive piano and Haruvi-Means’ stirring sax that tugs on the heartstrings.
An effort that doesn’t shy away from Sanlikol’s Turkish heritage, the folk, cinematic and poetry nods are all represented with powerful, pretty and tender song craft.
Travels well with: Leon Anderson- Live At Snug Harbor; Jack Leckie- Planter Of Seeds