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Third World Love: Sketch of Tel Aviv
ByWhat's convincing is not just their high level of playing, but also how they pull many global flavors together. For instance, on "A Touch of Tahini, you not only hear a Jewish influence, but also a hot Latin clave. In the title piece, "Sketch of Tel Aviv, there are swatches of Jewish, European and even American ragtimefurther enhanced by a synthesized trumpet solo and a sweet, funky backbeat. That may sound wild, but it works wonderfully to yield music that is both accessible and familiar, regardless of your musical background.
The melody-filled compositions are supported by repeating phrases, interspersed with atypical jazz solos. One interesting piece is the rural-esque "Hareshut, boasting mesmerizing oud playing by Omer Avital. On the ballad "Suzanna, Cohen's synthesized trumpet evokes an affecting mood. One of my favorite pieces is "Suite African #2, which beckons the listener to dance with its steady bass/drum beat and playful trumpet/piano exchanges.
Third World Love draws inspiration from many sources, channeling them into its own sound. It is said that the band is wildly popular in Israel, performing in small venues or large arenas to enthusiastic crowds. Listening to Sketch of Tel Aviv, it's easy to understand why.
Track Listing
A Touch of Tahini; Sketch of Tel Aviv; Suite African #2; Hareshut ; S'ai N'wai; Horizon (Kav Haofek); Suzanna (aka Rock Ballad); Three Four (Not a Jazz Tune).
Personnel
Omer Avital: bass, oud, Avishai Cohen: trumpet; Yonatan Avishai:piano, fender rhodes; Daniel Freedman: drums, percussion; Eviatar Banai: vocals (6).
Album information
Title: Sketch of Tel Aviv | Year Released: 2007 | Record Label: Smalls Records