Review: Balance, the third studio album by acclaimed bassist and composer Daniel Casimir, radiates "Big Band Energy," masterfully blending Classical, Jazz, and cinematic influences. Balance is a tribute to the legacy of big band composition, honoring its historical roots while weaving in modern perspectives. The project ambitiously merges the robust sounds of a big band with the rich tones of a string section, drawing inspiration from Wayne Shorter's Emanon, which profoundly impacted Casimir during the album's creation. Building on the success of his previous album, Boxed In, which featured a jazz quintet and a mini chamber orchestra, Balance is Casimir's most ambitious work yet. It features 26 musicians, including prominent figures from the UK jazz scene like Cassie Kinoshi, Nubya Garcia, Rosie Turton, and Binker, alongside the London Contemporary Orchestra's stunning string section. Recorded at Livingston Studios in November 2022, the album's intricate production process began with the foundational trio of piano, bass, and drums, followed by brass, woodwinds, and strings. Vocalists Zola Marcelle and Ria Moran lend their powerful voices to the final recording day, adding the finishing touches to this masterpiece. Notable tracks include 'Music Not Numbers,' a rallying cry for musicians to stay true to their creativity despite streaming culture, and 'Search for Goldilocks,' which delves into the quest for life's perfect balance. Balance is a bold, innovative journey that elevates Casimir's musical vision to new heights.
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