Beneath The Sun
Self-Released, 2026
9/10
The Indonesia native and New York composer and pianist Francesca Prihasti is joined by Nic Vardanega, Drew Gress, Mark Ferber and Nick Brust for these 7 melodic tracks that often surround motherhood.
“In Between” starts with Prihasti’s flowing keys and Vardanega’s warm guitar that helps make for a rich climate, and the title track follows with Gress’ atmospheric bass that adds much coziness to the swirling delivery.
“Leura” and “Till We Have Faces” land in the middle. The former is full of meticulous piano amid Ferber’s skilled drums via a reflective mood, while the latter makes great use of Brust’s lively sax alongside the radiant textures.
Residing near the end, “Unanswered Questions”, the album’s best, blends the meticulous keys with a mesmerizing rhythm section, and “Fortitude” exits with Brust’s bright sax playing that suits the upbeat and timeless jazz.
An enlightening and harmonic body of work, Prihasti’s vision carries an authentic spirit and is delivered with much care and universal appeal.
Travels well with: John Clay- About Time; Pete Mills- For The Record