Oded Lev-Ari - Threading (2015/2019) [Hi-Res]

Composer-arranger-producer Oded Lev-Ari has crafted acclaimed albums by the likes of hit band 3 Cohens, clarinet icon Anat Cohen and woodwind sage Marty Ehrlich, as well as rising-star singers Amy Cervini, Melissa Stylianou and vocal trio Duchess. Now the Tel Aviv-born, New York-based Lev-Ari steps out with the first recording under his own name: Threading.

The album presents six inspired Lev-Ari compositions – instrumental and vocal – performed by an all-star 11-piece New York band that includes Anat Cohen and the ace Matt Wilson on drums, as well as guest vocalists Alan Hampton and Jo Lawry.

The chamber-jazz sound of Threading – which features not only winds, trumpet and a textured rhythm section but also three cellos – hints at varied sonic worlds, from jazz sound painters Gil Evans and Maria Schneider to tango nuevo king Astor Piazzolla and contemporary classical composers. Ultimately, though, Lev-Ari has his own, individual soundprint, one of cinematic richness and open-hearted lyricism.

Oded Lev-Ari, piano
Anat Cohen, clarinet
Will Vinson, alto saxophone, soprano saxophone
Brian Landrus, baritone saxophone, bass clarinet
Nadje Noordhuis, trumpet, flugelhorn
Alex Waterman, cello
Yoed Nir, cello
Noah Hoffeld, cello
Gilad Hekselman, guitar
Joe Martin, bass
Matt Wilson, drums
Alan Hampton, vocals (3, 7)
Jo Lawry, vocals (7)