Oded Lev-Ari has produced albums for acclaimed jazz musicians (Anat Cohen, 3 Cohens, Marty Ehrlich, Amy Cervini, et al.), and has now released a sublime album under his own name. Threading — on Anzic Records, the record label owned by Lev-Ari and Anat Cohen — includes original compositions by the Israeli-born pianist, composer, arranger and producer. One tune, “Goodbye,” by Gordon Jenkins (1910-1984), appears twice: once with a vocal by Alan Hampton, and again featuring clarinet virtuoso Cohen. Vocalist Jo Lawry joins Hampton on “The Dance”; and ace drummer Matt Wilson plays on the album, along with a stellar group of musicians. The songs range from the orchestral “Voices” to “Black Crow,” with melodies evoking Lev-Ari’s Israeli musical roots. Threading is a wonderful step forward for Lev-Ari. — Mordecai Specktor
(American Jewish World, 5.22.15)
