Mar 30, 2026 10:30 PM
Flea Finds His Jazz Thing
In the relatively small pantheon of certifiable rock stars venturing into the intersection of pop music and jazz, the…
Drummer Hugo Medeiros (left), pianist Amaro Freitas and bassist Jean Elton perform on Rasif, which is due out Oct. 19.
(Photo: Courtesy Far Out)The rhythmic complexity of Amaro Freitas’ trio is dizzying.
After the Brazilian pianist’s talents were showcased working with his father in a church band, Freitas spent some time at Conservatório Pernambucano de Música. His stint there, though, was cut short because of a financial shortfall. It didn’t stop Freitas from figuring out how to find time to sit down at a keyboard—imaginary or otherwise—and learn the instrument.
His second leader date, Rasif (Far Out), features the performances of a bandleader who clearly got what he needed out of his truncated stay at conservatory, while incorporating a wealth of rhythms from Brazil and the influence of Chick Corea. Freitas is joined by bassist Jean Elton and drummer Hugo Medeiros on the recording, which is due out Oct. 19. Below is the debut of “Trupé,” the second track on the upcoming album.
“This song is a tribute to the Samba de Coco Trupé, a musical style and dance, which arises through the beat of the feet, while wearing wooden clogs, accompanied by percussive instruments,” the pianist said. “The style was created by Lula Calixto in Arcoverde, located in the Moxotó/Pernambuco region. In this composition, the piano works as a percussive element in an attempt to develop a melodic rhythm, inspired by the rhythm of the dance in the Trupé style.”
For more information about Freitas and his band, visit the Far Out homepage. DB
“Cerebral and academic thought is a different way to approach music,” Flea says of his continuing dive into jazz. “I’ve always relied on emotion and intuition and physicality.”
Mar 30, 2026 10:30 PM
In the relatively small pantheon of certifiable rock stars venturing into the intersection of pop music and jazz, the…
Cécile McLorin Salvant busts out Jelly Roll Morton’s “The Murder Ballad” at Big Ears, here with pianist Sullivan Fortner.
Apr 7, 2026 1:21 PM
There’s pluralism, then there’s PLURALISM! — and then there’s Big Ears. Thurston Moore, who participated in…
Each of the 25 JAMs has delivered a poster featuring a jazz legend that is sent out to schools across the nation. This year’s poster features Tony Bennett.
Mar 30, 2026 10:20 PM
Every April for the past quarter century, something remarkable has happened across the United States and far beyond.…
“We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”
Apr 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
Bollani demonstrates at the piano during a live Blindfold Test in Umbria, Italy, while writer Ashley Kahn, right, and translator Greg Burk look on.
Mar 24, 2026 11:42 AM
Raconteur, bon vivant and popular television host Stefano Bollani is also one of Italy’s best-known pianists, a rare…
