Opportunity for Unity

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of "Opportunity for Unity," the captivating 2017 album by Ryan Carniaux, a masterful blend of jazz and soulful rhythms that will transport you to a realm of pure auditory bliss. Collaborating with Ra-Kalam Bob Moses, Carniaux crafts a sonic landscape that is both intimate and expansive, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its rich textures and melodic depth.

With sixteen tracks spanning over an hour, "Opportunity for Unity" is a journey through various moods and atmospheres, each song a unique exploration of sound and emotion. From the ethereal "Forest Spirits" to the uplifting "A Bounce in Our Steps," the album showcases Carniaux's versatility and his ability to weave intricate musical narratives. The title track, "Opportunity for Unity," sets the tone with its infectious groove and uplifting melody, while "Slow Dance Around the Sacred Fire" offers a moment of reflective serenity.

The album's release on the Hipjazz label underscores its roots in the jazz tradition while pushing the boundaries of the genre. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Opportunity for Unity" promises an enriching listening experience. The collaboration between Carniaux and Moses brings a dynamic energy to the album, making it a standout release in the world of contemporary jazz.

May 26, 2017

2017 hipjazz music

About Ryan Carniaux

Ryan Carniaux is a renowned American jazz trumpeter, born in New York City in 1980 and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. His musical journey began at the age of twelve, and by his teenage years, he was already performing with various bands, including the Jazz Orchestra of John Allmark. Carniaux's formal education includes a scholarship at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he studied under notable mentors like Tiger Okoshi and Greg Hopkins. He further honed his skills with a Master's degree in Jazz Trumpet at the Conservatorium Maastricht in the Netherlands.

Carniaux's career is marked by his distinctive, warm tone and technical prowess, which he brings to his performances and recordings. He has shared the stage with legendary musicians such as Mark Murphy, Benny Golson, and Kidd Jordan, among others. His discography includes a variety of albums that showcase his original compositions and lyrical style, with notable works like "Reflections of the Persevering Spirit" and "Opportunity For Unity," the latter featuring a dialogue with the legendary drummer Ra-Kalam Bob Moses.

Currently, Ryan Carniaux resides in Cologne, Germany, where he serves as a Professor and Chair of Jazz Studies at the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen. His influence extends beyond performance, as he educates the next generation of jazz musicians, inspiring them with his deep musical insights and technical mastery. Whether on stage or in the classroom, Carniaux's passion for jazz and his commitment to its evolution make him a standout figure in the contemporary jazz scene.