Amina Mezaache & Maracuja – Vortex

Maracuja’s trademark is undeniably the velvety tone of the flutes played by Amina Mezaache, who also composed the entire repertoire.

This sound, which has nothing shrill about its high notes, unfolds with remarkably fluid phrasing, not least in inventive, superbly structured solos. But the other members of the quartet are obviously not to be outdone when it comes to group sound, and in this respect Fabien Debellefontaine‘s virtuoso sousaphone playing – which contrasts in the low registers with the flute of the leader – is a key element, and not only ensures a supple rhythm, but also works wonders as a soloist.

Yoan Fernandez‘s guitar provides first-rate harmonic and rhythmic support, but generally confines itself to playing chords and arpeggios, taking only rare solos, all of which tell a story. Jonathan Edo‘s colorful percussion completes the picture with a remarkable blend of presence and discretion. But for this third opus in ten years, the basic quartet has enlisted the services of guests on two or three tracks, who add welcome new colors on trumpet or flugelhorn, accordion and even, on one track, rap.

If Amina Mezaache‘s inspiration is clearly Brazilian, she draws on the diversity of the country’s music and never on bossa nova clichés. Each track is also a pretext for improvisations, all using the language of jazz. This is not exotic music, and one of its models is of course Hermeto Pascoal, one of Brazil’s most eclectic musicians. This third recording is a complete success, confirming Maracuja as one of the most original and interesting combos in the French jazz scene.