Arnan Raz - 7 Days (2022)

Acclaimed saxophonist and composer, Arnan Raz, is releasing his highly original new album
“7 Days” - a 7 track sonic and rhythmic exploration through Jazz, Afro-cuban and Middle-Eastern music. As an active Jazz saxophonist Raz has performed extensively in NYC’s most prestigious venues (Brooklyn Ballroom, NY Philharmonic and others) and achieved worldwide popularity as a member of “The Side Project”, with global tours and tens of thousands of Youtube views. After two raved albums (“One of the leading lights on the international jazz scene for many years to come” Mike Gates, UK Vibe), “7 Days” is released by Raz’s Co-Founded label “Rabbit Rabbit Rabbit”.

“7 Days” sets the ground for a new artistic phase in Raz’s artistry, leaning on his deep roots in Jazz, while enriching them with Ethnic influences inspired by encounters of recent years. “I live in Bushwick'' says Raz, “A neighbourhood which inhabits people from all over the world. Since my girlfriend and I also come from different countries and backgrounds,my life has become multicultural both personally and artistically, and it all shows in my music. This album celebrates the different geographics and ethnic inspirations I was lucky to absorb during the last few years of my life”.

The new band of “7 Days” is another expression of internationality: Saxophonist Eyal Hai (NY/Israel) trumpet player Hillel Salem (NY/Israel), Percussionists Kofi Hunter (U.S.A) and Joel Mateo (Puerto Rico), and bass player Scott Colberg (U.S.A). The unusual ensemble was thoughtfully assembled by Raz, intentionally leaving out the harmonic instruments, giving more independence to the melodic lines and leaving space for Raz’s sophisticated improvisation. ”Paying without the usual support of a harmonic instrument feels naked in the best way possible” says Raz. “It’s like playing in nature, without any protection or boundaries”. The addition of a rich percussion section allows the melodies to fly freely within the rhythmic structure and create a raw, groovy atmosphere.

“I love it when people dance when I play, and especially when I play Jazz” Raz admits. listening to “7 Days” can definitely get you on your feet with its free spirited improvisation and stirring beats. This album is Jazzy, it’s Latin and it’s Cuban, it’s beautifully melodic and at the same time irresistibly energetic. Most importantly, It is sure to touch anybody with a bit of fire in their hearts.