Record Reviews

SRDJAN IVANOVIC ~ MODULAR RUE DES BALKANS 006 (Barcode: 3521383480908) ~ BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is the debut album as a leader by Bosnian (resident in Paris) drummer / composer Srdjan IvanovicFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio setting with French guitarist Manu CodjaFind albums by this artist and Israeli bassist Yoni ZelnikFind albums by this artist. Four guest musicians, including the incredible flautists Ludivine IssambourgFind albums by this artist, participate on selected tracks. The album presents nine tracks, seven of which are original compositions by the leader and two are arrangements of Pop standards. The music is a wonderful Jazz-World Fusion outing, presenting a wide kaleidoscope of melodic and rhythmic influences from the world over, including naturally Balkan influences, but also Middle Eastern and African musical traditions. Based on excellent melody lines composed by Ivanovic and thoughtfully arranged, the music flows smoothly, full of natural beauty and splendid World Music flair, spiced by the strong Jazzy improvisations. The level of all the musicians is superb, starting with the core trio, which features the wonderful guitar playing by Codja, strong and imaginative bass work by Zelnik and complex rhythmic layers by the leader, who stays respectfully in the background, supporting the soloist and not overwhelming the entire procedure. On top of the trio’s work the guests add brilliant flute and trumpet adornments, which combine elegance and virtuosic abilities. As usual in the case of drummers / composers, I have to emphasize the fact that in many cases the compositional input by drummers is by no means less impressive than what is created by other instrumentalists, and often even superior, which is splendidly attested herein. In this case also the arrangements of the two Pop standards are very original and interesting. Overall, this is an excellent Jazz-World Fusion album, elegant, aesthetically balanced and offering a truly wonderful musical experience, which should satisfy even the most demanding listeners. I hope to be able to hear this music live one day, but in the meantime this little gem will have to suffice. Thank you for the music!

Updated: 21/05/2024Posted: 21/05/2024

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