This fascinating quartet consists of three talented young musicians, pianist
Harmen Fraanje, guitarist
Nelson Veras, and drummer Matthieu Chazarenc, as well as seasoned veteran
Hein Van De Geyn on bass. While only the bassist is likely to be familiar to most savvy jazz fans, the compositions, most of which were written by
Fraanje, draw from several fields of music. The title track has a Middle Eastern flavor in the vamp sections, though it quickly segues into a quiet jazz setting. "Nanne" begins with a gorgeous solo improvisation by
Fraanje and transforms into a brief meditative ballad. The funky rhythm of "Mokka" suggests a blend of New Orleans jazz and post-bop, retaining the humor of the former style and the adventurous modern spirit of the latter. "Paris Song" is a lighthearted waltz, while "Winter" has a bit of a melancholy air. The sound of this hybrid Super Audio CD adds to the enjoyment of this delightful date. ~ Ken Dryden