Worth it
5
By Mrs. Schnep
We drove from Virginia to Ohio just to see Aziza perform live at the Lincoln Theater. It was #worthit!!!! I am never disappointed when I see Chris Potter or Dave Holland. It was so fun to meet them after the concert along with Eric Harland and Lionel Loueke. These men are so humble. They have such a gift from God. I am honored to witness such talent and creativity that comes from our Maker.
Aziza lives up to it's name "precious"
5
By Gary_P_Bagnall59
Aziza is Muslim girls name of Arabic origin meaning "precious". Not sure of the back story here as this exciting new combo's self-titled debut, but it is certainly apposite. Certainly shades of Hollands "Prism", but wth less of a rock/RnB vibe. This current set has definitely got a world feel, African for sure. Shades of Zawinul, Miles, but only in color. Driven along with zest by Holland and Harland's full, open drum palette, the melodic work is nicely shared between Potters' unique Sax lines and the distinctive guitar sound of Loueke. For me, it all comes together as a distinctive combo that I hope to see play live but buy this first release, such quality jazz playing is a precious thing for sure. Recommended.
As good as jazz gets
5
By ekknox
Dave Holland's "Prism" group features the same rhythym section as heard here and is excellent, but Aziza is, to my ears anyway, even more special. Lionel Loucke is, in my estimation, the most important and innovative voice in jazz guitar since Pat Matheny, while Metheny's bandmate Chris Potter is simply one of the greatest living sax players. Eric Harland is without question one of the top half-dozen drummers in jazz and has never sounded better, while Dave Holland's strengths as a player and composer have been well-known for decades.
The compositions are strong, diverse and memorable and there is such a palpable sense of these great virtousos listening to each other intently and doing everything they can to help each other shine. The melodic front two of Potter on sax and Loueke on guitar are magical, while Holland and Harland have never sounded better. Not just one of the best jazz albums of 2016 but a masterpiece for the ages.
