Nocturne for Ava

Dive into the shadows of classic cinema with Bob Sneider's "Nocturne for Ava," a captivating journey through the golden age of film noir and beyond. Released on February 17, 2009, via Origin Records, this album is the second installment in the Film Noir Project, a collaborative effort between guitarist Bob Sneider and vibraphonist Joe Locke. Together, they pay homage to the iconic scores and compositions that defined an era, offering a fresh perspective on timeless classics.

Spanning a generous 70 minutes, "Nocturne for Ava" features 11 tracks that seamlessly blend jazz and film music, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and innovative. The album opens with the sultry "Last Tango in Paris" and closes with the enigmatic "Los Feliz," taking listeners on a cinematic journey through iconic themes and original compositions. Highlights include renditions of Michel Legrand's "Windmills of Your Mind" and Duke Ellington's "Flirtibird," alongside original tracks like "Black Dahlia" and "Kiss Me, Kill Me."

Sneider's guitar work is complemented by Locke's expressive vibraphone, with additional contributions from Grant Stewart on tenor saxophone, John Sneider on bass, and Luisito Quintero on drums. The result is a rich, textured sound that honors the past while pushing the boundaries of jazz and film music. Whether you're a fan of classic cinema, jazz enthusiast, or simply appreciate great music, "Nocturne for Ava" is an album that demands your attention.