Beyond Belief
Alfi, 2024
9/10
The inimitable guitarist Albare brings along Phil Turcio, Phil Rex, Pablo Bencid and Lionel Cole for these 10 worldly jazz songs that are rich with global ideas.
The rhythmic and dynamic “Missing In Action” opens the listen with Bencid’s fluid drumming and Albare’s meticulous guitar radiating much melody, and “MAD’s Happy Day” follows with Rex’s mesmerizing bass and plenty of warmth that emits a cultured appeal of timeless jazz.
At the midpoint, “I Believe” uses Cole’s expressive vocals for the dreamy album highlight, while “Ladino Jazz” adds a hint of intimacy to Turcio’s sophisticated keys that suit Albare’s playful guitar.
Landing near the end, “Blue Bossa Reimagined” is full of lively energy thanks to the intricate rhythm section and very detailed progressions from Albare’s finger acrobatics, and “Hypothetical Retrospection” exits with the eloquent guitar being complemented by agile keys, animated drums and careful bass.
Albare’s song craft is as diverse as his upbringing, which includes living in Morocco, Israel, France and Australia, and the interplay with the other musicians is nothing short of stunning.
Travels well with: Ron Rieder- Latin Jazz Sessions; Paul Kendall- Whisper Not