Anat Cohen's "Notes from the Village" is a captivating journey into the world of contemporary jazz, released in September 2008 on Anzic Records. This album showcases Cohen's exceptional versatility and mastery of multiple instruments, including clarinet, tenor and soprano sax, and bass clarinet. Accompanied by a stellar New York-based quartet featuring Jason Lindner on piano, Gilad Hekselman on guitar, Omer Avital on bass, and Daniel Freedman on drums and percussion, Cohen delivers a set that seamlessly blends original compositions with reinterpretations of classics by Fats Waller, John Coltrane, Sam Cooke, and Ernesto Lecuona.
The album opens with "Washington Square Park," a lively and inviting track that sets the tone for the eclectic mix of styles to come. Cohen's improvisational fluidity and gift for melody are evident throughout, as she navigates through Brazilian jazz, Latin jazz, and traditional jazz with ease. Standout tracks include the sultry "Until You're In Love Again," the haunting "Lullaby for the Naive Ones," and the powerful rendition of Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come."
"Notes from the Village" is a testament to Anat Cohen's artistic growth and her status as a rising star in the jazz world. The album received critical acclaim, with DownBeat Magazine awarding it four stars and The New York Times praising Cohen's ability to mix melody and improvisation. Whether you're a longtime fan of Anat Cohen or new to her music, this album is a compelling introduction to her unique sound and artistic vision.
