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Reviews

Praise for Return of the Light
Praise for Wheel of Dharma

"…each track demonstrates the quintet's collaborative leanings and intuitive inclination to play as a cohesive unit, rousing each other's creative impulses. Independently recorded and produced by Elefante, the project reflects his commitment to honoring both the music and the personal journey behind it… Tapping into Elefante's lengthy history with his band mates enabled him to create arrangements steep in their shared experiences and distinctive strengths.  Entwining elements of swing and straight-ahead jazz, the quintet not only revived Elefante's love of the craft but they also revived the craft itself, thrusting the iconic medley into the 21st century." - Jazz2Love 

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“This vibrantly fervent, all-embracing and joyfully hued new recording opens on the spirited flourishes that drive Bad Dancing and then we get the languishing beauty of Rocky, the elegantly divine The One Who Knows, and they are in turn backed by the simply sumptuous The Earth is On Fire, the album rounding out on the sterner, more profoundly sculpted Samadhi, coming to an all too soon close on the delightfully melodic Lion’s Eyes.” - Anne Carlini, Russell Trunk's Exclusive Magazine 

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“Pianist Joe Elefante serves up a blue plate special of Blue Note inspired bopping originals with Freddie Hendrix/tp, Erena Terakubo/ts, Sameer Shankar/b and Dave Hellman/dr. The horns give wonderful harmonies on the hip fingersnapping ‘Bad Dancing’ and sprint like Olympians on ‘The Earth Is On Fire.’ Hendrix splats and splices like Lee Morgan on fire as Elefante supplies the gospel chords on the well dug 'Samadhi.' Terakubo soulfully struts on ‘Rocky’ and the team paints the town blue on 'Lion’s Eyes.' Easy Livin!” - George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly

”… it’s the song, ‘The One Who Knows’ that snatches my attention, featuring a beautiful and emotional solo by Sameer Shankar on bass.  I find myself infatuated with this production.  It’s both melodic and tender.  Elefante’s solo is compelling.  Another favorite is ‘Lion’s Eyes’ that struts and swaggers across my listening room in a very swinging way, like a well-dressed man in a bright red suit strutting down a Brooklyn boulevard bouncing gold chains and a custom cane.” - DeeDee McNeil, Making a Scene 

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"This band is so hot that it really does feel like ‘The Earth is on Fire’… Reminiscent of traditional jazz with a definite eye toward the future of where jazz is going.  Joe is an excellent pianist.  Freddie Hendrix never fails to soar but at the same time give the rest of the band what they need.  Was not familiar with Erena Terakubo on saxophone, but her future is bright.  Even though this song is original, it feels familiar and swinging at the same time." - Gail Boyd 

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“('The Earth Is on Fire') captures everything I love about jazz. The tight rhythm and stunning solos create an irresistible energy, fast-paced, dynamic, and impossible to sit still to. The musicianship here is phenomenal, truly on par with the jazz greats. The drums keep everything grounded with a clean, slick swing groove, while the bass guides you effortlessly through the song, adding depth and an infectious groove. Each instrument plays its part without stepping on another's toes, creating a seamless interplay where every sound shines through. The piano’s lines cut through with intensity, and the trumpet tone has a unique, almost indescribable quality, full of warmth, yet powerful and raw. My admiration for this song runs deep, and I honestly can’t find a single flaw." - Toby Wijten, Gypsy Jazz Classics 

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“The intricate harmonies, dynamic rhythms, and deeply expressive solos from both Freddie Hendrix and Erena Terakubo create an intensity that’s perfectly balanced with introspection. The production quality also shines, bringing forward every nuanced detail in a way that really captures the listener’s ear. Your quintet is doing something remarkable by blending traditional jazz roots with a contemporary approach, and the result feels fresh, urgent, and relevant.” - Vinnie Jinn, Pyaar Music Records 

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“'The Earth Is on Fire' is an excellent release complete with exquisite performances, an intelligent arrangement and vibrant production. It is a stunning release that needs to be heard.” - FV Music Blog

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“The American artist and his quintet deliver a dynamic jazz offering with energetic playing. The carefully crafted arrangements of this sprightly track captivate the listener with the virtuosity of the musicians. Everything is executed in the rules of the art on this brilliantly produced track!”- Boulimique de Musique 

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"…quite original and modern, very up to date… You can feel the project's coherence and influences from A to Z." - WETA Records

"Standout track, 'The Earth Is on Fire.' blends powerful rhythms, intricate harmonies, and passionate solos, capturing the urgency of our time with a fresh, forward-thinking approach to jazz.” - Concert Monkey 

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“The central motif was catchy, and each of the solos was amazing. I especially enjoyed the abrupt and dissonant ending; it made my ears perk up wanting more!” - Lucid Media Blog 

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"'The Earth Is On Fire" is a powerful instrumental piece that effectively conveys its message without words… Thank you for creating such an evocative piece." - Dulaxi 

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"The melody itself is fast-paced and complex, with sharp, angular movements that bounce unpredictably across the harmony. Like is typical in bebop fashion, the notes don’t flow in smooth, predictable lines but rather dart and twist, creating a sense of urgency and tension, as though the narrative of the song is speeding toward some inevitable climax. Each melodic line seems like a brief burst of energy—perfectly reflecting the idea of the earth being 'on fire,' in a constant state of combustion and movement." - Tuxedo Mask 

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“…the solos are great and the recording has a very good sound quality. Really, really good work!” - Guido Tongiorgi 

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“…wonderful energy and flow, with impressive musicianship and a captivating groove. The arrangement feels fresh yet timeless, and each instrument complements the others beautifully.” - Felt Piano Recordings 

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“…weaves together soulful melodies and lively rhythms, capturing the essence of jazz in every note. The instrumentals are beautifully layered, with each solo bringing a unique flair that adds depth and color.” - Marianna Baroli

© 2024 by Joe Elefante

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