Janis Steprans - Ajivtal (2017) [Hi-Res]

The work that gives its name to this album is inspired by a famous composition of the saxophonist Theodore "Sonny" Rollins. Airegin Ajivtal is the name of the country of my ancestors. Latvija, written upside down.

The piece is built around a previously imagined musical motif, an exotic motif evoking Russian, Middle Eastern and Jewish music. While writing this piece, I was reflecting on my own origins and how they influence my music. I hope Ajivtal and the other parts of this album will please you.