Record Reviews

ALBERT BEGER ~ BIG MOTHER EARSAY 078 (Barcode: 7290010420780) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008 8th album by Israeli saxophonist Albert BegerFind albums by this artist recorded with his new quartet, which includes two new members: Aviram Ben NaimFind albums by this artist on piano and Yoav ZoharFind albums by this artist on drums. Veteran bassist Gabriel MeyerFind albums by this artist is still with Beger, the only member of his ensemble who plays with him since the first album recorded twelve years ago. Beger composed and arranged all the music, which is surprisingly much more melodic than his previous recordings. Of course there is plenty of free improvisation, but the musical themes are clearly stated and adhered to. The two new members prove to be a wise choice and play splendidly, creating the strongest version of Beger’s quartet ever. Pianist Ben Naim is an ideal accompanist for the leader, with his beautifully harmonic rapid movement all over the keyboard and Zohar on drums builds up the tension skillfully. Meyer’s steady bass foundation keeps the music on track with taste and apparent superb feel for the music. Beger is a great player; comfortable in any situation the music takes him to, regardless of key, tempo or the complexity of the tunes. His writing is getting better all the time and this new music is definitely his strongest statement to date, as a composer. This album stands proudly shoulder to shoulder with any contemporary Jazz recording from Europe or the US, positioning Beger firmly as a world-class Jazz artists. Brilliant stuff!

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