Bob Holz – Holz-Stathis Collaborative (MVD Audio, 2023)
Bob Holz, the maestro of jazz fusion rhythms, released Holz-Stathis Collaborative alongside luminaries of jazz, fusion, and world music. The guests included jazz fusion royalty such as John McLaughlin, Jean-Luc Ponty, and Airto Moreira. Holz seamlessly mixes jazz-funk grooves with the sultry rhythms of bossa nova, all while infusing his signature fusion flair.
At the heart of the album lies the striking and decidedly upbeat composition “World Turned Upside Down,” a mesmerizing fusion work that displays the virtuosity of McLaughlin, Ponty, Armstrong, and Holz himself. Their synergy on this track is nothing short of magical.
Other high points include the infectious jazz-funk vibes of “You Can Get It,” punctuated by Randy Brecker’s scintillating trumpet solos; and the beauty of “Flight of Fancy,” where guitar and violin engage in a mesmerizing dance of melodies.
As a percussionist extraordinaire, Holz expands his rhythmic palette by collaborating with Brazilian legend Airto Moreira and Peruvian maestro Alex Acuña, alongside the incomparable Joey Heredia. Their synergy infuses the album with pulsating Latin jazz fusion rhythms.
Musicians: Bob Holz on drums; John McLaughlin on guitar; Jean-Luc Ponty on violin; Darryl Jones on bass; Randy Brecker on trumpet; Elliott Yamin on vocals; Alex Acuña on percussion; Airto Moreira on percussion; Joey Heredia on percussion; Brandon Fields on saxophone; Ralphe Armstrong on bass; Billy Steinway on keyboards; Dean Brown on guitar; Ric Fierabracci on bass; Jamie Glaser on guitar; Ada Rovatti on saxophone; Karen Briggs on violin; Diana Purim on vocals; Benjamin Shepherd on bass; Frank Stepanek on percussion; James Moody on acoustic guitar; and Krishna Booker on beat box.
Rob Stathis is the Executive Producer.