Refuge

The most exciting Jazz Musician of a generation

     

Gilad is exciting for two reasons: firstly he is an amazing saxophonist (one whom, I have heard on numerous occasions live.), and secondly, he is a philosopher and an artist who brings a dialogue on one of the most difficult subjects of the 20C to those who will listen. His book "The Wandering Who", is worthy of greatness in a world of cookie cutter answers to global issues.

With regard to this album, I am afraid it is simply 'great', but not as great as hearing the maestro live! If you ever wondered how to blend Middle Eastern scales with modern Jazz, then this is a rare piece of action. This is not elevator music nor is it something you put in the background, it is full-on, and in your face, the harmonics are amazing and it treads a line so close to Middle-Eastern and main stream Western jazz melodics that at first it is confusing. Once you get your head around what is happening you suddenly realise the genius at play.

I have been listening to Gilad for 10 years now, and, parking many discussions on the frugality of output in musical terms at the cost of political milage. I have come to the conclusion that he is in the league of Miles Davies with what he attempts to do on a raw melodic basis with Jazz. Believe me I know what I say here as Miles is a God to me. But if I wanted to define where Gilad was in terms of interpreting the modern jazz vision laid down by Miles this album would have come just before "you are under arrest". In fact it is the Western/Arab version of the Miles Davies album.

My only fear is that the political life of this artist is eclipsing his musical genius. As the words outweigh the notes he deprives the world of his legacy.

الموسيقى لا يغير الكلمات إرثا