Hanuraga, Sri: To The Universe

Indonesian pianist Sri Hanuraga (aka Aga) released is second solo album last year titled To The Universe. The quartet features Aga (acoustic piano, Rhodes), Mattia Magatelli (electric and double bass), Kristijan Krajncan (drums) and Rodrigo Parejo Mateos (flute).

On the album Aga has taken elements of Indonesian folk music and incorporated them into his own unique style of jazz ranging from more discordant modern soundscapes to heavy fusion with a little prog thrown in for good measure.

The disc begins with "Teka - teki" and its slightly discordant piano excursions. A big bop groove ensues as the bass and drums are played with gusto and a suitable amount of fervor. The jarring piano motifs return throughout making this quite an adventurous jazz track. Next is the three part "Ever Changing" with parts 1 and 2 quite soft and mellifluous with great flute trills and pretty melodies. The piano in part 2 does get a bit abstract showcasing Aga's penchant for pushing the boundary of melody and discord. The progressive fusion of Part 3 is a completely different beast showcasing plenty of fuzz and reverb mixed with cleaner sounding Rhodes as Aga trades his acoustic piano for a more heavier electronic sound. The fuzzed out bass tones and heavy drum work gives this one a muscular backbone. The title track returns to the quartet's jazz roots beginning with outstanding double bass and some of Aga's most melodic piano on the disc. As the song progresses the drums get busier and the music slightly more forceful without losing sight of the gorgeous melody. The last track finds the quartet dabbling in a more classic sound, giving this one a romantic and nostalgic flair.

Jazz fans will certainly want to check out To The Universe. Superbly played and crafted, this is a sonic adventure you will not want to miss.

Track Listing:
1. Teka – teki
2. Ever Changing Part 1
3. Ever Changing Part 2
4. Ever Changing Part 3
5. To The Universe
6. Suwe Ora Jamu
7. Amadeus
8. Gundul Pacul
9. A Palm For You
10. Schoenefeld

Added: May 1st 2016
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Facebook Page
Hits: 1452
Language: english

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