Bahla - Imprints - CD

Formed by Venezuelan pianist Joseph Costi and English guitarist Tal Janes, London based group Bahla break new ground with their unique mix of cinematic jazz entangled with Jewish folklore. Their debut album Imprints is a collection of 8 songs inspired by different stories of identity, migration and displacement. Music and culture are joined at the hip and particularly in the current climate, Bahla have been driven to show that it is not only possible for different cultures to meet peacefully, but these moments of collaboration can lead to something new and exciting. The music is home to many different influences, ranging from Radiohead to Polar Bear to Shai Maestro, but has kept Jewish folk traditions at its core. Across the album, a distinctive palette is underset by a bold and dynamic rhythm section, while radiant vocals – echoing the modal form of Jewish prayer music – rise and fall over searching, delicate melodies on keys and guitar.