"Triple Helix," the ninth album from Anat Cohen as a leader, is a testament to her prowess as a clarinetist and bandleader, showcasing her ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and captivating whole. Released on June 14, 2019, via Anzic Records, this studio album features the Anat Cohen Tentet, a ten-piece ensemble that brings together a wealth of talent to explore the rich tapestry of sounds that Cohen and her longtime collaborator Oded Lev-Ari have woven together.
The album's centerpiece is a three-movement concerto, also titled "Triple Helix," composed specifically for Cohen and the Tentet by Lev-Ari. This ambitious work is a journey through classical and contemporary sounds, Americana lyricism, and rhythms drawn from Latin and Middle Eastern traditions. The concerto is spread across three tracks, each offering a unique perspective on Cohen's virtuosic playing and the Tentet's collective musicianship.
In addition to the concerto, "Triple Helix" features a mix of original compositions and reimagined standards. Tracks like "Milonga Del Angel" and "La Llorona" highlight the Tentet's Latin jazz influences, while "Lonesome Train" and "Morning Melody (Epilogue)" showcase their versatility in other genres. The album was recorded at the renowned Sear Sound studios in New York and earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album in 2020.
With "Triple Helix," Anat Cohen continues to push the boundaries of jazz, creating an album that is both a celebration of her musical journey and a bold step forward. The album's nine tracks, spanning a total of 51 minutes, offer a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the Tentet's exceptional talent and Cohen's unique vision as a bandleader and composer.
