DEJÀN’s debut album, Of The Soul, celebrates global sounds and intricate musicianship. This record exemplifies the power of cultural fusion, blending Latin, jazz, funk, soul, and electro-pop into a cohesive masterpiece worth repeating over and over again. From start to finish, DEJÀN crafts a sonic journey deeply rooted in tradition yet sounds fresh, unique, innovative, and exciting. The essence of DEJÀN’s music lies in its name: “De”, meaning “from” in Spanish, and “Jan”, Azerbaijani for “soul” or “family.” True to this spirit, Of The Soul is a heartfelt expression of connection and cultural dialogue. The ensemble, composed of Swiss/Argentinian vocalist Joana Elena Obieta, Azerbaijani/Ukrainian bassist Han Beyli, Cuban drummer Keisel Jimenez, Japanese percussionist Kan Yanabe, and Cuban pianist/composer Aníbal Cruz, delivers an album fully packed with passion, technical brilliance, and unlimited creativity.
Joana Elena Obieta’s extraordinary vocal performance is the sole core of this album. Her voice is an instrument of incredible range and control, transitioning between low, mid, and high registers with a natural grace that immediately grabs listeners’ attention. Whether delivering sultry, soulful melodies or soaring, impassioned choruses, Obieta’s vocals are technically impeccable and emotionally rich. Her ability to channel raw emotion while maintaining precision is remarkable, adding depth and authenticity to the album’s multifaceted soundscapes. The instrumental performances are equally inspiring. Aníbal Cruz’s piano and synth work is a cornerstone of the album, knitting intricate, familiar, and novel harmonic textures and dynamic melodies. His contributions ground more adventurous sonic explorations, offering a sense of cohesion amidst its eclectic influences. From vibrant, jazz-inspired piano lines to ethereal synth layers, Cruz’s artistry exemplifies versatility and taste invested in this material. Han Beyli’s basslines are equally impressive. His intricate playing adds a foundational groove to the compositions, pushing each track with rhythmic complexity and melodic flair. Beyli’s ability to balance technicalities with a deep sense of groove highlights the fusion of tradition and innovation. Keisel Jimenez’s drumming is another standout feature, displaying a breathtaking command of rhythm and texture. He expertly navigates different time signatures and rhythmic sequences, from driving Latin grooves to jazz-inspired syncopations, and infuses the album with dynamics. The rhythmic interplay between Jimenez and Japanese percussionist Kan Yanabe is a marvel to behold, creating an intricate soundscape built upon pulsating beats and syncopated rhythms that serve as the heartbeat of this material.
Of The Soul captures the essence of their collective heritage, blending Latin American rhythms, Azerbaijani melodic sensibilities, Cuban jazz, and electronic textures into a unified whole. The result is modern music deeply rooted in tradition. The rhythmic structures are particularly noteworthy. DEJÀN’s usage of regular and odd-time signatures showcases their adventurous spirit and technical expertise. These rhythmic intricacies never feel forced or overly cerebral. Instead, they enhance the music’s emotional impact, creating moments of tension and release that keep the listener engaged from scratch to finish. The album is more than a display of technical virtuosity, it is a heartfelt expression of connection, empathy, and shared humanity. Each track invites the listener into a world filled with vivid emotions, from jubilant celebration to contemplative thought. Beyond its musical achievements, Of The Soul embodies a vision of cross-cultural understanding and respect. DEJÀN’s mission to bridge cultural divides through music is evident in every note, and the album serves as true display of art. By introducing sounds from different traditions in an authentic and innovative way, DEJÀN not only honors their heritage but also creates a space for dialogue and empathy. Of The Soul is a stunning debut that positions DEJÀN at the top of the global music scene. The blend of Latin, jazz, funk, soul, and electro-pop, combined with exceptional musicianship and emotion, makes it a standout release. From Joana Elena Obieta’s fascinating vocals to the intricate interplay of rhythms and melodies, every aspect of the album oozes transcendence. DEJÀN has crafted more than just a collection of songs, they have created a musical journey that transcends borders and speaks to the universal language of the soul. Of The Soul is a must-listen for anyone who values artistry, innovation, and exceptional music. This album uplifts, inspires, and connects.
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