FABLES

With Fables, his second album, Carles GR takes a step forward in his musical career by paying tribute to the great fabulists of history, such as La Fontaine, Samaniego, and Aesop. This work, entirely composed and arranged by the Catalan guitarist, is a piece that blends storytelling and jazz with unique sensitivity. The pieces not only evoke the moral teachings of the fables but also translate them into a richly nuanced musical language.

Carles surrounds himself with a team of exceptional artists who contribute to the album’s distinctive character. Denis Uhalde, a cornerstone of his quartet, once again demonstrates his mastery of the piano with a lyricism and depth essential to Carles’ compositions. Alongside him, Albert Bover, a Catalan pianist who is a reference in Spanish jazz, and Albert Freixenet, an emerging figure in jazz piano from Barcelona, enrich the album with their stylistic diversity. Each of them brings a unique voice that reinforces the narrative of the pieces. Adding to this is the presence of Florence Antraygues, a French singer whose ethereal and evocative voice provides a narrative and emotional dimension to the tracks.

The rhythmic foundation of the album maintains the solidity demonstrated in Les Sens. Denis Rezard on double bass and acoustic bass, and Massimo Trasente on drums, reaffirm their ability to provide a firm yet flexible structure that allows the dynamic development of each piece. Their chemistry with Carles is evident and reflected in the album’s fluidity, where every performance highlights the connection between the musicians.

In terms of composition, Carles GR achieves an admirable balance between jazz improvisation and narrative structure. Each piece captures the spirit of the fables, from the most playful and lively to the introspective and melancholic. Notably, tracks like “The Ant and the Grasshopper” and “The Lion and the Mouse” show how Carles combines words and music to tell stories in a unique way, with sophisticated arrangements and impeccable execution.

The diversity brought by the pianists is one of the album’s strengths. Denis Uhalde imbues his characteristic lyricism, Albert Bover adds depth and sophistication, while Albert Freixenet injects a fresh and modern air. All of this is seamlessly woven together by Carles’ arrangements, which manage to maintain the album’s cohesion without sacrificing the individuality of each musician.

Finally, Florence Antraygues’ voice, with its subtle and evocative style, becomes a bridge between literary and musical storytelling. Her interpretation elevates the compositions, giving them a poetic quality that resonates deeply.

In conclusion, Fables is a testament to Carles GR’s artistic maturity. This second album is not only a tribute to the classic fabulists but also an affirmation of the guitarist’s talent as a composer, arranger, and leader. A work that solidifies his place in the contemporary jazz scene and promises to captivate both jazz enthusiasts and those seeking an emotional connection through music.