The quartet from Munich follow up their sparkling debut “Orqcle” with another winner. “Dance Of The Demons” incorporates spiritual and vintage Ethopian jazz rhythms highlighted by Moroccan based singer Majid Bekkas. Bekkas, one of the premiere voices of Gnawa-Music makes his presence felt throughout the disc. “Agowu” is a fiery tune that showcases Bekkas and is driven by pianist Roberto Di Gioia’s sweeping solos. “Sandia” explodes with rumbling percussion from Di Gioia and intense drumming from Peter Gall. Bekkas also introduces the Gembri, similar to an upright bass on “Marcoc Blues”. Tony Lakatos’s tenor is a warm presence but his soprano is especially pleasing on the title track. This quartet can not only swing hard but they display the ability to back up a singer as moving as Bekkas. This disc is filled with adventurous tracks and prolific performances and is simply a delightful listen. You need this in your collection.
