Tovy Meshoulam (Israel, jazz, fusion)

Jazz is characterized and identified by the creativity of the moment - improvisation, but as in every other Art Form, so jazz is based on meticulous planning and intentional creation of a particular atmosphere and specific sound. These elements serve as the foundation and inspiration to every improviser, and it is up to the composer and the arranger to provide the performing musician with these elements. This album is an excellent example of such cooperation between the composers, the arranger and the performing artists.
Tovy Meshoulam, who proved his great arranging skills on his previous record "Acoustics" (JAZZIS 1017), is determined to undertake an even more challenging project this time - to present a series of original jazz compositions written by himself and by two other young Israeli composers. The compositions vary in style and mood, taking us through modal, serial, Latin and rock music intertwined with jazz concepts. Tovy's brilliant arrangements add soul to this astounding music and create a tapestry of sound never before heard in this country.
The music presented here also demonstrates Tovy's involvement with other musical areas, especially the field of contemporary music. The composition "Metamorphosis", for example, was written for and performed by the Israeli "Musica Nova Consort". Here the composer touches upon philosophical subjects, such as the meaning of life and the circle of life as experienced by man.
It is interesting to see how well Tovy uses the instruments to create a "massive", almost Big Band sound, although he uses only a small ensemble of musicians. The voicing of the horns and the colors of sound combined with the vitality of the rhythm section is masterful.
The musicians chosen by Tovy to perform his musical ideas are the cream of Israel's jazz community. They are all gifted composers and band leaders, but on this album they concentrate on their skills as players and Improvisers in order to achieve the goal set by the arranger. Their exceptional accomplishments, combined with Tovy's perfectionism and unconventional approach generate a truly brilliant effect. One can only hope that this album will become a "classic".

Adam Baruch
June 1994

This ensemble of ten Israeli jazz musicians is unique in many ways. The usage of acoustic wind instruments without support of any harmonic instruments produces an unorthodox sound. The skilful and ingenious arrangements emphasize the variety of sounds made by the brass and reeds. It is also a meeting between veteran and master musicians and promising youngsters, who are about to embark on their musical careers.
The material selected for this recording presents a wide spectrum of jazz styles, emphasizing the skills of the musicians both as ensemble members and soloists. This mixture of jazz standards and original compositions serves well as a vehicle to fanfare how good this band is.
Tovy Meshoulam is the driving force behind this ensemble. This record is a result of his efforts to put this band together, write all the beautiful arrangements, get the musicians to rehearse and finally to record. Anyone who was ever involved in such process knows how difficult and sometimes disheartening all this can be. Tovy deserves all the credits for his sisyphean work and may this record be his consolation and prise. He can be proud of it!
Adam Baruch May 1992