Drummer, percussionist, vibraphonist, composer, and Blue Note legend Joe Chambers returns with his highly anticipated third album as a leader for the iconic label, Dance Kobina. Following the success of his 2021 release Samba de Maracatu, Chambers continues to explore the dynamic fusion of jazz with Latin, Brazilian, Argentinian, and African music. This ambitious new project further cements Chambers as one of the most versatile and innovative musicians of his generation.
Dance Kobina sees the legendary percussionist expanding his musical boundaries, co-producing the album alongside pianist Andrés Vial. The album was recorded in both New York and Montreal, capturing the vibrancy and complexity of Chambers’ global influences. With a mix of original compositions and interpretations of works by some of his most revered collaborators, Dance Kobina is a rich, textured journey through rhythm and melody.
A Celebration of Global Rhythms
The title track, “Dance Kobina,” sets the tone for the album with a pulsating groove that blends the rhythmic intensity of Latin jazz with African and Brazilian influences. Chambers, known for his masterful command of percussion, creates a dynamic soundscape that invites listeners to move and engage with the music on a deeply physical level. Throughout the album, his percussion work shines—whether it’s the driving beats of “City of Saints” or the evocative texture of the “Gazelle Suite,” where intricate rhythms evoke the majesty and fluidity of the animal world.
In addition to his own originals, Chambers includes several covers that breathe new life into classic compositions. “Ruth,” a standout track, is a tender, soulful piece that features Chambers’ ability to seamlessly blend complex rhythm with melody. His reinterpretation of Joe Henderson’s “Power to the People” is equally captivating, imbuing the song with a fresh sense of urgency and emotion.
Collaborations and Unique Interpretations
One of the defining features of Dance Kobina is the collaborative spirit that permeates the album. Pianist Andrés Vial, who co-produced the album, brings his distinctive voice to the project, contributing original compositions like “Intermezzo.” This piece, with its rhythmic drive and harmonic inventiveness, showcases Vial’s ability to complement Chambers’ percussive energy with his own expressive piano work.
The album also includes a daring version of Kurt Weill’s “This Is New,” where the chamber jazz elements blend seamlessly with Latin and African rhythms, creating a compelling reimagining of Weill’s classic. “Caravanserai,” another standout track, is a joyful, expansive piece that showcases Chambers’ dexterity on both drums and vibraphone, creating a dense, atmospheric texture that transports the listener to another world.
Argentine guitarist Karl Ratzer’s “Moon Dance” is reinterpreted with a shimmering, hypnotic groove, bringing yet another global influence to the album’s already eclectic blend of sounds. Whether on vibraphone, percussion, or drums, Chambers brings his distinct touch to every track, balancing the technical precision of jazz with the spontaneity of Latin and African rhythms.
Tracklist:
- This Is New
- Dance Kobina
- Ruth
- Caravanserai
- City of Saints
- Gazelle Suite
- Intermezzo
- Power to the People
- Moon Dance
A Global Masterpiece
With Dance Kobina, Joe Chambers once again proves his exceptional ability to bring together the diverse worlds of jazz, Latin, Brazilian, Argentinian, and African music. The album is a true testament to his decades of experience and deep understanding of the interconnections between musical cultures. Chambers’ compositions are both innovative and timeless, while his arrangements pay tribute to the traditions that have shaped his musical journey.
As one of the most influential figures in the modern jazz scene, Chambers continues to push the boundaries of what jazz can be. His work on Dance Kobina is both a celebration of his roots and a bold exploration of the future, blending rhythm and melody in new and unexpected ways.
Dance Kobina is a vibrant, multi-layered album that invites listeners to experience the power of music as a universal language, uniting people and cultures through the beauty of rhythm and harmony. It’s a must-listen for jazz lovers and anyone who appreciates the rich textures of global music.