Wonderland

A notable exponent of the fertile Spanish jazz scene, Daniel García delivers a lively piano record that pushes the boundaries of the format. Proceedings kick off with the classical inflections of solo cut ‘Paz’, before the rhythm section of bassist Reinier ‘El Negrón’ and drummer Michael Olivera jump into the mix on ‘Gates to the Land of Wonders’. Continuing to reference flamenco, García casts the net wider this time, drawing on everything from Cuban to Caribbean and classical influences. Guitarist Gilad Hekselman helps broaden the sound palette with his turn on the memorable title-track, synchronising with the piano before the two instruments weave beautifully around each other. Elsewhere, the breathy and emotive vocals of Lau Noah add deep emotional resonance to ‘You and Me’. Wonderland pushes the envelope of what a piano record can be, deftly mixing styles and bringing in the odd guest to change things up. A highly rewarding record.