East of West - Velella (2026) [Hi-Res]

The musical trio East of West released the album Velella, named after the ocean-dwelling "by-the-wind sailor" hydrozoan. Recorded live in Brisbane by sound engineer Siiri Metsar, the release reflects eight years of intuitive collaboration, featuring virtuosic unison melodies and expressive solos.

The compositions by Gajić weave delicate melodic motifs into fast-paced passages driven by Balkan rhythms, leaving ample room for open improvisation and prominent percussion solos by Malindi. Oud player and naturalist Philip Griffin contributed two tracks to the project: the driving piece "a Distinct Lack of Parrotfinch" in an unusual 50/8 time signature, inspired by his search for an elusive bird, and the piece "Camille," dedicated to his goddaughter. Together, the album seamlessly blends ethno-jazz, folk, and acoustic soundscapes.

Tracklist:
1. East of West - Green Clouds
2. East of West - Small Hero
3. East of West - Spring Street
4. East of West - Gathering
5. East of West - Overseas
6. East of West - A Distinct Lack of Parrotfinch
7. East of West - Dancing Leaves
8. East of West - Camille
9. East of West - Velella