Aleph Quintet – Shapes of Silence (Igloo Records, 2023)
Aleph Quintet’s Shapes of Silence presents the remarkable talents of young musicians based in Belgium. One of the stars of the band is Wajdi Riahi, a virtuoso Tunisian pianist, who has become a leading figure in the Belgian contemporary jazz scene. This album has garnered awards and recognition, including accolades from the Journées Musicales de Carthage in Tunisia and the prestigious Musical Press Prize.
On Shapes of Silence you’ll find a tasteful mix of straight ahead jazz and beautifully crafted pieces that incorporate North African music, jazz improvisation, Gnawa rhythms, and Sufi flavors. The album also features stellar performances on piano, oud and violin.
As indicated earlier, Wajdi Riahi, born in Tunisia and now based in Brussels, is a rising star in the Belgian jazz scene. Besides his work as a sideman in various projects, including Stéphane Gallands’ Rhythm Hunters and Aleph Quintet, Riahi has made a name for himself with his own trio. His music reflects his Arab heritage, intertwined with his deep affection for jazz and the influences experienced in Brussels. Riahi takes listeners on a captivating journey through a diverse and nuanced repertoire. Furthermore, on December 1st, 2023, the Wajdi Riahi Trio will unveil their second album, Essia, promising more musical delights.
Musicians: Akram Ben Romdhane on oud; Marvin Burlas on violin; Wajdi Riahi on piano; Théo Zipper on bass; and Maxime Aznar on drums. Guest: Fabrizio Cassol on alto sax.
Buy Shapes of Silence.
Author: Sonia Keller
