JAZZTHETIK 03/04-2024

Branko Arnsek Sextett
Move closer!
59music / Galileo

More or less in parallel with the revival of the Cuban salon orchestra with the tentet The Cuban Orchestra, an album titled Move Closer! by its artistic director, the prolific jazz bassist Branko Arnšek, has been released on his label 59music. On this album, the Sindelfingen-based musician of Slovenian descent indulges his talent as a composer on nine tracks, recorded with Frank Eberle (piano), Janos Löber (trumpet), Anton Mangold (saxophone), Michael Mischl (drums), and Reinier Ceruto (percussion). His debut album as a bandleader, composer, and arranger oscillates between his Balkan roots, his training in Switzerland, and his adopted home of Cuba; Gypsy swing also makes its presence felt as a recurring influence. On "No Sabes," "Balance," and "J*A*Z*Z," you can also hear singer Johanna Jo Jones, who particularly shines on "Charlie," reminiscent of the son-like feel of the Buena Vista Social Club. Tracks like "Obatala" and "Delay" tend more toward a straight-ahead style, while "Sirba me da" and the hip-hop-infused "D'Avinci" lean more toward modern jazz. While "Move Closer!" may not leave a lasting impression, Arnšek certainly presents a confident calling card.

Harry Schmidt