ElSaffar, Amir
Outhere Records, 2021, CD
Instrument: Trumpet
Issue: 28.1
Jazz Ruler Type: Pop+Jazz
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 74
O’s Notes: Amir ElSaffar is an American jazz trumpeter and vocalist who blends traditional Arabic music with jazz and classical music. He infuses occasional vocal chants with sax on top of a syncopated, percussive orchestra. We liked the dark, mysterious sounds on “Dhuha” and “Reaching Upwards”. Both could easily find their way into an Indiana Jones soundtrack. There are notable contributions by bassist Carlo De Rosa and drummer Nasheet Waits through the set. All of the compositions are original and illustrate yet another blending of cultures through symphonic and enjoyable music.
Publicist: Fully Altered Media
