Overseas

Overseas, a captivating international ensemble rooted in diverse overseas traditions. The first name on Brussels-based saxophonist Toine Thys' wishlist was that of Ihan Radwan, the Egyptian oud player with whom he has shared the stage in recent years. Radwan's imprint on the music is the most prominent. Titles like "Istanbul Kidz" and "Tamam Morning" already betray the Arabic influences, and those who hear the duets between Radwan and Thys on clarinet will undoubtedly be reminded of the Taksim Trio.

But what makes this album so interesting is how it further challenges the balancing act between jazz and Arabic music. Cellist Annemie Osborne brings fragments of classical music into the mix, while Brazilian musician Zé Luis Nascimento adds a rich layer of percussion. On the piano, we find Harmen Fraanje, who never plays a note too many and once again delves into the nuances of tone and timbre.