The Meeting
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The esteemed drummer Jimmy Branly finds himself as a leader on this very well thought out affair, where Will Brahm’s guitar and Ahmet Turkmenoglu’s bass accompany him across the rhythmic and harmonic 10 tracks.
“Bis Bis” starts the listen with warm guitar, restrained drumming and soothing bass work in the very cozy Afro-Cuban jazz setting, and “If I Should Lose You” follows with a calm melody and plenty of intimacy surrounding the agile song craft.
“Infant Eyes”, by Wayne Shorter, holds down the middle spot and showcases a dreamy quality amid the heartfelt Bolero, while “The Meeting” moves swiftly, with dynamic interaction between the trio that emits a meticulous, mesmerizing display of unparalleled skill.
Close to the end, “Blues 14” bounces and shakes with an addictive energy that’s indeed bluesy and cultured, and “Cherokee” exits the listen with a glowing delivery that allows all players to take their turn in the spotlight.
Branly has kept so busy touring and playing with A-list jazz artists that he’s shied away from the lead position. He more than makes up for that absence with this worldly listen, where his Cuban heritage is certainly present alongside blues, balladry and fusion fun.
Travels well with: Antonio Adolfo- Jobim Forever; David Binney- Tomorrow’s Journey