Mirror Image
Adhyâropa, 2025
9/10
The Brooklyn guitarist Tal Yahalom is joined by Irene Han, David Leon, Ledah Finck and Rogerio Boccato for these 9 originals that showcase his creative jazz ideas with much beauty.
The radiant and pretty guitar of “Prelude” starts the listen in a solo setting, and “Hymn For Tomorrow” follows with Boccato’s flowing percussion adding much to the swirling climate and Leon’s bright sax.
“Tri-Tonal” and “Sleepless” occupy the middle spots. The former uses playful guitar progressions amid a rich and textured album highlight, while the latter is a soft and dreamy moment of sublime and heartfelt songwriting.
Close to the end, “The Boat Drifts Still” makes great use of elegant sax and Finck’s stirring violin, and “Dusk On Landwehr Canal” exits with a layered and cautious finish that benefits much from Han’s careful cello.
A very lush effort that balances intense and gentle waves, Yahlom’s guitar playing is fascinating from beginning to end, and the players help cultivate a very engaging version of jazz.
Travels well with: Eli Greenhoe & Hans Bilger- Orchids; Scroggins + Rose- Speranza