Guitarist, vocalist and composer Benji Kaplan explores the far-reaching range of his composing, orchestrating and guitar playing, with Chorando Sete Cores. Kaplan combines the colorful sounds of a wind quintet with his acoustic nylon-stringed guitar. The quintet is: Anne Drummond -Alto and C Flute, Remy Leboeuf – Clarinet and Bass Clarinet, David Byrd-Marrow – French Horn, and Kaplan – Nylon String acoustic guitar, Producer, all orchestrations and compositions. The chamber ensemble performs thirteen pieces that all contain a foundation Brazilian forms and rhythms that is a rich tapestry of colors and textures, the players unfold a story that is both beautiful in ensemble playing and counterpoint, with Kaplan’s brilliant composing and playing as the catalyst. That’s the short of it!
Positives:
Chorando Sete Cores is a remarkable accomplishment that brings a unique sound to the forefront. Kaplan is a visionary composer. This music provides a consistent thread that we can enjoy, come back to and recommend for years to come. The music is varied in color and style, the result is pure musical pleasure.
Bottom Line:
Benji Kaplan has created a collection of thirteen pieces in Chorando Sete Cores that is a vehicle to convey his composition skills, in addition to his playing, and that of the other fine musicians. Creating a chamber ensemble that is full of the spontaneity of improvised sections as well as, beautiful orchestrated composed sections with a foundation in Brazilian choros, lullabies, sambas, maracatus and various other forms is a compelling listen. All seamlessly providing a musical soundscape that has substance and is distinctive.