Rafael Enciso - Crossfade (2025) [Hi-Res]

Bassist and composer Rafael Enciso has released his debut album, Crossfade, a musical contemplation on the nature of time and the idea that the past is never truly gone but cyclically blends with the present, much like a musical crossfade. Enciso, inspired by the natural cycles he observed growing up in Ithaca, New York, utilized his compositions to reflect this coexistence and influence of the past and present. The album, produced by the legendary Dayna Stephens, features original compositions that balance strong grooves and melodies with enough flexibility for the core quartet to improvise. The core quartet—Enciso (bass), Gabriel Chakarji (piano), Miguel Russell (drums), and Nicola Caminiti (alto saxophone)—demonstrates a profound understanding, reinforced by long-standing friendship and shared playing experience, including in Dayna Stephens's band. Standout tracks include "Waterfall," which depicts transformation and flow, "Thousand Yard Stare," an emotional ballad featuring Jahari Stampley on organ, "The High Priestess," an ode to Wayne Shorter, and the playful "Austin Otto" with a guest spot by Stephens on saxophone. Crossfade is praised as a standout debut that showcases Enciso's ability to unify talented musicians into a cohesive ensemble that successfully realizes his vision.

Rafael Enciso, bass
Gabriel Chakarji, piano
Miguel Russell, drums
Nicola Caminiti, alto saxophone

Tracklist:
1-1 Rafael Enciso;Miguel Russell - The High Priestess [5:21]
1-2 Rafael Enciso;Gabriel Chakarji - Photogenic Memory [5:00]
1-3 Rafael Enciso;Dayna Stephens - Austin Otto [5:15]
1-4 Rafael Enciso - Stick Your Neck Out [4:42]
1-5 Rafael Enciso;Jahari Stampley - Thousand Yard Stare [5:33]
1-6 Rafael Enciso;Nicola Caminiti - Waterfall [4:53]
1-7 Rafael Enciso - Solstice [3:46]
1-8 Rafael Enciso - Skipping Stones [5:13]
1-9 Rafael Enciso - Whirlpool [2:54]
1-10 Rafael Enciso;Jahari Stampley - Lennox Avenue [5:06]