Hendrik Meurkens - Samba Tonto (2026) [Hi-Res]

Hendrik Meurkens is a distinguished multi-instrumentalist who masterfully integrates the vibraphone and the harmonica into his artistic repertoire. His career is characterized by a profound synthesis of straight-ahead jazz and Brazilian musical traditions. The artist's latest album, "Samba Tonto," represents a significant return to Latin American rhythms following a period focused on bop-oriented projects. The recording features an elite ensemble of musicians, including the legendary drummer Portinho and long-term collaborator, pianist Misha Tsiganov.

The album's repertoire consists of original compositions alongside refined interpretations of classics by Jobim, Legrand, and Donato. The musical content spans from high-energy sambas in complex time signatures to evocative ballads dedicated to the artist's family and peers. A defining feature of the record is the integration of string arrangements and the distinctive timbral pairing of the trombone and harmonica. Meurkens' objective remains the creation of enduring, aesthetically sophisticated music that bridges the technical demands of jazz improvisation with the melodic elegance of Brazilian traditions.

Hendrik Meurkens - harmonica, vibes
Justus Heher - trombone on tracks 1,3,5,6,8,9,10
Laura Dreyer - flute on tracks 7,8,9,11
Misha Tsiganov - piano, fender rhodes
Eduardo Belo - bass
Portinho - drums and percussion

Tracklist:
1. Hendrik Meurkens - Know It All (Quem Diz Que Sabe)
2. Hendrik Meurkens - The Summer Knows
3. Hendrik Meurkens - Herb's Samba
4. Hendrik Meurkens - My Romance
5. Hendrik Meurkens - Samba Tonto
6. Hendrik Meurkens - A Lullaby for Benny
7. Hendrik Meurkens - Chorinho for Nico
8. Hendrik Meurkens - Surf Board
9. Hendrik Meurkens - Chelsea Nocturne
10. Hendrik Meurkens - Bye Bye Brasil
11. Hendrik Meurkens - Choro em Casa