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Hendrik Meurkens: Samba Jazz Odyssey
ByThere happens to be two European jazz orchestras that draw the attention of most jazz artists and they are the Netherlands Metropole Jazz Orchestra (Metropole Orkest) and The WDR Big Band. Meurkens says: "It is everybody's dream to record with the WDR Big Band, and I was honored to collaborate with them...This project is very special to me..." Written by Meurkens in honor of the Java Jazz Festival based in Jakarta, "A Night in Jakarta" begins this musical adventure in festive style featuring tenor saxophonist Paul Heller and trombonist Raphael Klemm.
First recorded on his album Poema Brasileiro (Concord, 1996), "Manhattan Samba" is a homage to the vibrant Brazilian jazz scene in New York, as he delivers some of his finest solo moments. One of his most popular compositions "Sambatropolis" is reprised once again from his 2007 release of the same name and on this version, the ensemble stands out adding a special treat. The first five tracks are all Meurkens originals and include the oft-recorded "Prague in March" and the hard-driving "Mountain Drive" where trumpeter Andy Haderer and pianist Billy Test contribute solos.
The propulsive "You Again" a Mossman composition, certainly makes a splash here with remarkable solos from various members of the band resulting in one of the many keepers of this session. The last two originals include a tribute piece to the great saxophonist Paquito D' Rivera with "Bolero Para Paquito" and the delicious harmonious samba-tinged "Samba Tonto."
Though not always a certainty, many Brazilian-styled recordings include at least one Antonio Carlos Jobim song, as is the case here with the finale "Choro," which is presented with a fresh new arrangement. For those who appreciate the flavors of Brazil, Samba Jazz Odyssey captures the sensuous samba, bossa nova and choro sounds in a big band setting sure to be visited often.
Track Listing
A Night in Jakarta; Manhattan Samba; Prague in March; Sambatropolis; Mountain Drive; You Again; Bolero Para Paquito; Samba Tonto; Choro.
Personnel
Hendrik Meurkens
harmonicaMichael Philip Mossman
composer / conductorPaul Shigihara
guitarBilly Test
pianoJohn Goldsby
bassHans Dekker
drumsAdditional Instrumentation
Johan Horlen: saxophone; Pascal Bartoszak: saxophone; Oliver Peters: saxophone; Paul Heller: saxophone; Jens Neufang: saxophone; Andy Haderer: trumpet; Wim Both: trumpet; Rob Bruynen: trumpet; Ruud Breuls: trumpet; Ludwig Nuss: trombone; trombone; Raphael Klemm: trombone; Andy Hunter: trombone; Mattis Cederberg: trombone.
Album information
Title: Samba Jazz Odyssey | Year Released: 2022 | Record Label: Zoho Music
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About Hendrik Meurkens
Instrument: Harmonica
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