Released: January 26, 2024

Genre: Jazz / Acoustic

From: US / Brazil

Label: Real World Records

Why you should listen: American saxophonist and composer Sam Gendel has teamed up with Brazilian guitar virtuoso Fabiano do Nascimento for an immersive, acoustic and stunning new album titled The Room. They recorded the album in two days apparently, which is almost impossible to me considering the depth and complexity of composition on display here. I’ve been a fan of Sam Gendel since his 2022 album blueblue, and have loved his work since, so I had high expectations, and of course they delivered. The music sounds organic, pure, acoustic and enchanting. Fabiano’s 7-string guitar playing throughout is just so hypnotising. The rhythms, and pluck of the strings on tracks like “Astral Flowers” and the opener “Foi Boto” are sublime, as Sam’s playful and soulful sax melodies are a real joy to listen to. “Capricho” is gorgeous, with high tempo rhythms and melodies that dance throughout with ease, while the gentle “Kewere” is incredible too. What’s amazing is that with two instruments, they are able to create such layered and textured sounding music. Music with a dynamic and riveting heartbeat. The melodic meanderings of “Cores” are infectious, while the energy and tone of “Txera” and “Até de Manhã” are more reflective and even sombre, especially the latter of the two. The saxophone here is shedding a few tears, really melancholic in tone. The guitar gives it the space to do so, and it’s stunning. The playfulness of “Poeira” is lovely, while the earthly, light and expressive melody on “Tupi” is pretty great too. “Daiana” closes the album out with a light and expressive energy, ending it with grace and beauty. Sam Gendel and Fabiano do Nascimento’s The Room is a raw, immersive album showcasing the compositional and creative talents of two incredible musicians. A saxophone, a guitar and pure magic.

The album: