"Lumen" is a captivating collaboration between Panamanian pianist and composer Danilo Pérez and the Swedish jazz orchestra, Bohuslän Big Band. Released on October 25, 2024, under Prophone Records, this album is a vibrant fusion of Latin jazz and Pan-American rhythms, seamlessly blended with the rich, dynamic sound of a Nordic big band.
The album spans a diverse range of influences, drawing from Afro-Panamanian vernacular music and sophisticated jazz traditions. With a runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes, "Lumen" features nine tracks that showcase Pérez's refined compositional style and the virtuosic playing of the Bohuslän Big Band. From the luminous opener "Lumen" to the poignant dedication "One for Toni (Dedicated to Toni Morrison)," each piece offers a unique journey through the intersection of cultural and musical landscapes.
Pérez's mastery of rhythm and harmony shines throughout the album, as does the band's ability to navigate complex arrangements with precision and passion. Tracks like "Across the Crystal Sea" and "Galactic Panama" highlight the album's rhythmic complexity, while "Prayer for Peace" and "Irremediablemente" offer moments of introspection and lyrical beauty. The album closes with "Sunburn and Mosquito," a playful yet sophisticated piece that encapsulates the spirit of the collaboration.
"Lumen" is a testament to the power of musical collaboration and the universal language of jazz. It's an album that invites you to explore the rich tapestry of sounds and rhythms that define Danilo Pérez's unique artistic vision. Whether you're a longtime fan of jazz or new to the genre, "Lumen" offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
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