Avishai Cohen: The Jazz Maestro
An Israeli double bassist, composer, singer, arranger, and bandleader whose music blends jazz, Middle Eastern roots, Latin sound, and song.
Originally published on RealBookSoftware.com
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Avishai Cohen, born on April 20, 1970, in Kabri, Israel, is a renowned jazz double bassist, composer, singer, and arranger. His musical journey began at a young age when he started playing the piano. However, inspired by bassist Jaco Pastorius, he switched to the bass guitar at the age of 14. After serving for two years in an army band, Avishai moved to New York City, where he initially performed on the streets while working in construction.
Career and Musical Innovations
In New York, Cohen became part of Panamanian pianist Danilo Pérez’s Trio, which led him to experiment with Latin sounds. In 1997, Avishai Cohen became a member of Chick Corea’s New Trio and co-founder of Corea’s ensemble, “Origin”. During his six years of musical collaboration with Chick Corea, Avishai fine-tuned his skills as a performer and composer.
Recordings and Performances
Over the years, Cohen has recorded several albums that showcase his unique musical style. His debut album, “Adama”, was released in 1998, followed by “Devotion” in 1999, “Colors” in 2000, and “Unity” in 2001. These albums were released under Corea’s label Stretch/Concord Records and featured Mediterranean and Latin influences as well as the use of horns and vocals.
Contributions to Jazz
Cohen’s contributions to jazz go beyond his performances and recordings. He founded his record label, Razdaz Recordz, in 2002. “I’ve always been interested in several genres of music, including jazz, rock, pop, Latin and funk,” says Cohen. “I’m always packed with ideas. I decided to start my own label because I’m involved in so many different projects.”
Legacy and Influence
Cohen’s influence extends beyond his performances and compositions. He has been recognized as one of the most innovative bassists in the jazz scene today. His unique fusion of Middle Eastern, Eastern European and modern jazz influences has created a new standard in the world of jazz. He has also made significant contributions to the world of jazz education, conducting master classes and workshops around the world. His legacy lives on in his record label, Razdaz Recordz, and in the many musicians he has influenced throughout his career.
Selected Recordings
- “Adama” (1998) – This is Cohen’s debut album, where he began to establish his unique blend of Middle Eastern and jazz influences.
- “Gently Disturbed” (2008) – This is one of Cohen’s best-selling albums, featuring a trio format that allows for intricate interplay between the musicians.
- “Aurora” (2009) – This album showcases Cohen’s skills as a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, with a mix of original compositions and traditional songs.
- “Seven Seas” (2011) – On this album, Cohen explores a variety of musical styles, from folk to classical, all within a jazz framework.
- “Duende” (2012) – This duo album with pianist Nitai Hershkovits is a testament to Cohen’s versatility and ability to create intimate musical dialogues.
- “Almah” (2013) – This album features orchestral arrangements, demonstrating Cohen’s skills as a composer and arranger.
- “From Darkness” (2015) – Here, Cohen returns to the trio format, delivering a set of deeply intertwined performances.
- “1970” (2017) – This album takes Cohen’s musical journey in a new direction, blending jazz, folklore and pop in defiance of political and social relevance.
- “Arvoles” (2019) – Cohen’s latest release at the time of writing, this album features both new compositions and older tunes in fresh arrangements.
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