Emilio Marinelli Piano/electronics
Melanie Scholtz voice
Ndumiso Manana voice
Mike Rossi sax
Benjamin Jephta Bass
Marlon Clive Witboi Drums
The Italian pianist Emilio Marinelli is the core of this international project, which comes from numerous encounters with different worlds and musicians in Cape Town, South Africa. As a jazz musician, Marinelli has been collaborating with many prominent artists – such as Maria Schneider, Bob Brookmeyer, Enrico Rava, Andrea Bocelli, Kenny Wheeler, Nathan East, among others.
The album – mostly including original tracks – came from his recent African tour, supported and enhanced by one of the most celebrated rhythmics of South African jazz scene – Marlon Witbooi and Benjamin Jephta, playing drums and bass respectively.
The eclectic vocalist Melanie Scholtz, a singer who worked together with incredible artists (such as Bobby McFerrin and Kurt Elling) and a refined songwriter, is completing the band and is also the author of some of the lyrics.
The indestructible Mike Rossi’s sax, a celebrated musician and a pioneer as to jazz teaching in South Africa, is enhancing the whole work with his sing-ability and the stunning sound of his Baritone Sax.
A music adventure that came from the will to experiment new sonorities and explore influences, simultaneously melting rigorous composition and complete improvisation.
The fresh and futuristic music produced presents mutual listening and interplay as its prominent characteristics.