Michel Benita, a seasoned musician deeply rooted in the French jazz scene since the early 1980s, presents his second ECM album, "Looking At Sounds." This 2020 release is a testament to Benita's evolution as an artist, showcasing a revised quartet that seamlessly blends acoustic and electronic sounds into a captivating, jazz-based flow. The album features the talents of flugelhornist Matthieu Michel, pianist Jozef Dumoulin, and drummer Philippe Garcia, who also collaborated with Benita in his previous group, Ethics.
"Looking At Sounds" is a journey through contemporary jazz, with a touch of fusion, marking a shift towards a more popular direction in Benita's discography. The album's eleven tracks, including standouts like "Dervish Diva," "Barroco," and "Never Never Land," offer a rich tapestry of sounds that span over an hour. Benita's bass work is complemented by the dynamic interplay between Michel's flugelhorn, Dumoulin's piano, and Garcia's drumming, creating a cohesive and organic musical experience.
Recorded in Germany and released on ECM Records, "Looking At Sounds" is a compelling addition to Michel Benita's impressive body of work. The album's intricate compositions and innovative fusion of styles make it a captivating listen for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
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