Thinking out Loud

by Nadav Snir-Zelniker

Overview

The Origin label and its sister label OA2 have a knack for unearthing jazz drummers and making them into bandleaders, utilizing the more rhythmically intense compositions that stem from a leader in that position as something of a hallmark. Nadav Snir-Zelniker, a drummer from the New York scene, combines here with pianist Ted Rosenthal and bassist Todd Coolman. While they tackle a series of standards and new compositions alike, the mix of influence and innovation runs heavy. The opening track shows off some outstanding drumming from Snir-Zelniker, switching easily between complex fills and simplistic accompaniments. On "Secret Love," Rosenthal breaks into a full-fledged flight of Bud Powell-style fancy, while Snir-Zelniker takes a turn at the same era with a long solo of klook-mop standards a la Max Roach. There's a slight touch of the exotic in Billy Strayhorn's "Isfahan" and a ringing, Bill Evans-like approach to the piano in "Jack's Theme," followed by a short showcase of Coolman's bass prowess. While each member has his own strong abilities, it's when the trio is firing on all cylinders, as in the stepped-up rendition of Irving Berlin's "Blue Skies," that the group really brings a crest to its sound, a worthwhile mix of speed and sensitivity to the music. An outstanding album for fans of classic jazz in particular, but modern fans should find some goodness on their way as well. ~ Adam Greenberg

Product Details

Release Date:	07/20/2010
Label:	OA2
UPC:	0805552207026

Tracks

1. Pizmon Layakinton (Song for the Hyacinth)
2. Longing
3. Secret Love
4. The Hard Way
5. Interplay
6. Isfahan
7. Jack's Theme
8. Blue Skies
9. Come Wonder with Me
10. Carefree

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Nadav Snir-Zelniker   Primary Artist,Drums
Todd Coolman   Bass
Ted Rosenthal   Piano

Technical Credits

Rivka Gvilly   Composer
Ted Rosenthal   Composer,Arranger
Irving Berlin   Composer
Billy Strayhorn   Composer
Todd Coolman   Liner Notes
Bill Evans   Composer
John Bishop   Cover Design
Jeff Alexander   Composer
Sammy Fain   Composer
Manfred Knoop   Mixing,Engineer
Matt Cohen   Photography
Ilya Lishinsky   Mastering
Nadav Snir-Zelniker   Arranger,Composer,Producer
Idan Santhaus   Arranger
Dor Bar-Shalom   Composer
Leah Goldberg   Composer