Written by Malaga-born, Basel-based flutist and composer Fernando Brox has embarked on a deeply personal and introspective musical voyage with his fourth album as a bandleader, “From Within.” Released on May 3rd via Fresh Sound Records, this eight-track offering is a testament to Brox’s commitment to bridging diverse musical influences, drawing inspiration from folkloric traditions, jazz, and his own artistic vision.
Brox’s musical journey began at the tender age of eight, when he first embarked on his studies. Over the years, he has cultivated a rich and diverse career in classical music before ultimately devoting himself entirely to the realms of jazz and modern music. With “From Within,” Brox invites listeners to delve into the depths of his innermost feelings, dreams, and compositional voice, crafting a sonic tapestry that is both engaging and invigorating.
The eight compositions that comprise “From Within” were all conceived within the past year, reflecting Brox’s desire to capture the essence of human energies and ways of being and living. From personal experiences to melodies inspired by dreams, each piece is meticulously crafted to stir the listener’s human sensibilities, evoking a range of emotions and experiences.
In creating this album, Brox aimed to craft music that not only resonates with audiences but also invigorates his fellow musicians. He sought to break away from the often specialized and alienated approach found in the contemporary music world, instead embracing complexity in an organic and human way.
“I want people to dance to this music,” Brox explains. “I want my music to tell stories, to draw landscapes and sights of imaginary places.”
“From Within” is a testament to Brox’s ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and distinctive artistic statement. Drawing from folkloric traditions, jazz, and his own artistic vision, Brox has crafted a sound that is entirely his own yet deeply rooted in tradition.
The album features a quintet lineup that includes guitar and piano, creating a rich harmonic and rhythmic texture that perfectly complements Brox’s virtuosic flute playing. Latin-influenced grooves, captivating melodies, colorful harmonies, and sinuous compositions provide a dynamic and engaging foundation from which the ensemble embarks on passages of energetic, inspired improvisations.
Highly interactive ensemble musicianship is on full display, as the quintet navigates through realms of open, meditative ambience and densely arranged metric complexities. This is an ensemble that finds strength not only in their technical proficiency but also in their freedom and passion, illustrating the depth of their experience and the unbridled creativity that flows through their performances.
The album’s tracklist provides a captivating journey through Brox’s musical landscapes, each composition offering a unique perspective and emotional resonance. From the folkloric-tinged “Kuku” to the evocative “Blue Clouds,” and the aptly titled “Satanic Affair,” which likely showcases the ensemble’s more adventurous excursions, the album is a kaleidoscope of musical colors and textures.
The album closes with the latin-infused “Rumba pa ti,” a nod to Brox’s Spanish roots and a fitting conclusion to this introspective and deeply personal musical statement.
With “From Within,” Fernando Brox has crafted an album that not only showcases his virtuosic musicianship but also his ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level. This is an album that invites listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery, to explore the depths of their own emotions and experiences through the lens of Brox’s captivating compositions.
In conclusion “From Within,” stands as a strong addition to Brox’s discography and a fine example of the power of music to moved boundaries and connect the human spirit. Highly Recommended.
Track Listing
Kuku | The bagpiper | Kalahari | Blue Clouds | Fellowship | Satanic Affair | Si no fueras solo un sueño (if you weren’t only a dream) | Rumba pa’ ti
Line-Up:
Fernando Brox, Flute | Lago Fernandez, Drums | Iannis Obiols, Piano | Nadav Erlich, Double Bass | Wilfred Wilde, Guitar
Release Date: 3 May 2024
Format: CD | Streaming
Label: Fresh Sound Records
Last modified: May 13, 2024
