Efrat Alony_voc, arrangements
Niko Meinhold_piano
Henning Sieverts_bass
Heinrich Köbberling_drums
New Album: Händel – Fast Forward, Dot Time Records, 6/2023
Händel – Fast Forward
Alony’s passion for Handel’s music is unmistakable. The inspiration she draws is profoundly audible; with every stroke of her masterful vocal brush, with every unexpected harmony, that wraps- and at times even rattles Handel’s wonderful andtrusted melodies. Her interpretation of his music is marvelous and distinct. Extremelyunique, unheard of.And let some strange mysterious dream, wave at his wings in airy streamHandel’s Airs from Operas such as “Theodora”, “Lucrezia”, “Ottone” , “AlexanderBalus” or “Saul” are a magical vessel through which the wonders of Alony’s fabulousinstrument unfold.
A strong, soulful voice, its wast depth, almost haunts you. A marvelous shape-shiftingbeing, that slips in and out of different characters and emotions. Like a magician who knows too well the exact amounts of each ingredient in order to create the perfect
potion, she allures us to unexpected, unknown avenues, and we – the listeners- follow
blindly- we’re allowed a peak into the mystery, its most powerful and most frail
moments. “Händel’s melodies are pure and soulful, unpretentious. Their clarity will never misguide you- they aim straight for ‘TRUTH’ ” Alony says. “The search for ‘Truth’ has been fascinating me my entire career. Peeling off the layers of ‘almost truths’ or even ‘un-truths’ and reaching tangible honesty”
Why Handel? – Why Not???
Improvisation, variation and exploration were at the core of baroque music. The performances were constantly revised and reshaped, they lived in the moment, just like Jazz does. “If Händel lived today he would probably write pop songs or score breathtaking film music. He would be inventive, daring, explore new musical paths and would break his own rules. He would try to connect.” Alony says.
Accompanied by a strong Trio, set from crème de la crème of the contemporary german jazz scene, the musicians unfold – together they undertake a fantastical Journey, through unexpected hidden doorways to Handel’s world.
…Then as I wake, sweet music breathe, above, about, or underneath. Whatever Händel would do today, he would smile – or be enraged – but he could certainly not stay indifferent to Alony’s magnificent, daring interpretation.
Photos (copyright: Carola Schmidt)
