Evening Standard – 4*
Album review by: JACK MASSARIK
CDs of the Week
Few double-bassists have the pulling power to tour with their own groups. Avishai Cohen, Dave Holland, Charlie Haden and the wondrous Esperanza Spalding are four distinguished exceptions, and, like Esperanza, Avishai also sings.
On his latest album, the New York-based Israeli, a rare non-American on Blue Note’s books, wisely keeps his vocals wordless or non-English. More impressive are his original compositions, beautiful songlines which swing with a folk-like righteousness.
Pianist Shai Maestro and saxman Jimmy Greene add their dextrous touches to a typically tasteful and satisfying session. The group, minus Greene, visits Islington’s Union Chapel next Thursday, March 24.