Yaron Herman: Radio Paradise

"When I started working on this album, the first thing that came to my mind was melody. I have been writing a lot over the last few years, mostly in my notebooks, for myself. On the road or at home, anything from long lines to short fragments. With time, (and hard work) these "motifs" started to take shape and turn into 'songs,'" Yaron Herman shares about his backstage process.

Even though there are no human vocals on the album, it clearly sounds as if several voices are speaking, exchanging ideas, feelings, hesitations or firm beliefs. Herman on piano, Haggai Cohen Milo on bass, Ziv Ravitz on drums and saxophonists Maria Grand and Alexandra Grimal each have their distinct melodic lines. The hypnotic unison between piano and saxophone at the start of the album gradually evolves into an engaging conversation, with other voices joining in.

"Radio waves connect the Earth and the sky, transmitting vibrations that carry messages, sounds, and music into the world," says Herman. "This album celebrates the power of connection—those invisible threads of sound that unite us, spread positive energy, and remind us of our humanity."

Herman's piano playing is at times reminiscent of the lyrical style of Brad Mehldau, who is known for his nuanced phrasing and emotive depth. Herman's touch is often delicate, weaving intricate melodies filled with introspection and depth. At times, his piano becomes atmospheric and dreamlike, echoing Nordic influences. Yet, in the very next moment, his playing shifts, with rhythmic intricacies and rich melodic phrasing introducing a pulsating energy, resembling Latin or Middle Eastern music.

The interplay between the two saxophones creates an exploratory sound that combines Grand's rhythmic fluidity and vocal-like phrasing with Grimal's avant-garde textures and deep harmonic awareness in a way that is reminiscent of Leoš Janáček, who turned human speech intonations into melodies.

Grand's playing carries a sense of freedom that may remind the listener of Ornette Coleman and the spiritual introspection of John Coltrane. Her phrasing and tonal fluidity reflect an adventurous balance between structure and abstraction. Grimal's voice, sometimes boldly dissonant, brings to mind Steve Lacy's influence and adds an element of surprise and raw improvisation to the sound. She embraces extended sound explorations, creating dynamic resonant tones.

Ravitz's drumming adds a layer of rhythmic complexity and energy to the album. His playing blends refined textures and dynamic grooves, offering both drive and atmospheric depth. Ravitz's responsiveness to melodic lines ensures that each piece feels organic and alive and makes him an essential force in shaping the album's sound.

Cohen-Milo's bass work contributes a rich harmonic dimension to the music. His subtle shifts in dynamics enhance the album's fluidity, supporting Herman's improvisations while also carving out moments of his own voice. His ability to combine a deep groove with a lyrical sensitivity makes him an integral part of the band's sound.

A renowned musical theorist and lecturer on creativity, Herman believes that "creativity is not reserved for a chosen few. It is not a talent; it is a habit, an attitude, a way of being that can be learned and nurtured." With Radio Paradise, Herman invites listeners on an immersive journey—one that celebrates the joy of creation and the power of connection through sound.

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