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Gabriel Vicéns: Days
ByVicens's compositions not only include infectious rhythms but also a modern rock ambiance that courses with positive momentum. From the onset, the fine horn arrangements of Sipiagin's velvet-toned flugelhorn and the fiery saxophones of Sanchez and Jonathan Suazo in "El Teatro" set the tone for the program.
The buoyant comping and swinging style of pianist Bienvenido Dinzey is propelled by drummer Leonardo Osuna and bassist Dan Martinez's solid timing. Vicens gives space to each musician in the stunning ten minute track "Morph" which is threaded with a circuitous melodic hook and extensive solos that are accentuated and stylized. The band's synergy is further shown in the title track which features a seriously swinging groove-pocket painted by Mejias's percussion.
Though Vicens unselfishly shares the spotlight, he also provides his own moments of brilliance heard in mahogany colored chops that range from carefully probed inquisitions to rapid fire salvos of precision and control. His solo performance in "Prelude to Amintiri" is entrancing and segues nicely into a lovely guitar/piano duo. The multi-layered set contains bright moments such as the rock waltz-like theme in "Doing Circles" and the feverish "Breaking Through Shadows" highlighting the perfect blend of melody and rhythmic syncopation.
By the end of the final track "Justice" a blistering piece where everyone plays as if there's no tomorrow, Vicens has provided a splendid recording that conveys a clear representation of his culture and individuality.
Track Listing
El Teatro; Days; Morph; Prelude to Amintiri; Amintiri; Doing Circles; Comprehend; Breaking Through Shadows; Justice.
Personnel
Gabriel Vicéns
guitarAlex Sipiagin
trumpetDavid Sanchez
saxophone, tenorJonathan Suazo
saxophoneBienvenido Dinzey
pianoDan Martinez
bassLeonardo Osuna
drumsPaoli Mejias
percussionGabriel Vicens: guitar; Jonathan Suazo: alto saxophone; David Sanchez: tenor saxophone; Alex Sipiagin: trumpet and flugelhorn; Bienvenido Dinzey: piano; Dan Martinez: bass; Leonardo Osuna: drums; Paoli Mejias: congas and shaker.
Album information
Title: Days | Year Released: 2015 | Record Label: Inner Circle Music