THE BRAZIL PROJECT

Authentic and compelling Brazilian rhythms will be fused with contemporary jazz as Brazil Project brings an energetic show to Twins Jazz on October 10 and 11. The quartet features four deeply respected and world traveled musicians.

Begun two years ago, and featuring bassist Leonardo Lucini and saxophonist Jeff Antoniuk, Brazil Project features musicians who bring their mastery of Latin and West African rhythms to the jazz genre. The personnel of the ensemble changes somewhat with the musical theme of each concert. In every concert, the refreshing sounds of cool jazz are infused with authentic Brazilian rhythms. The music includes traditional Brazilian jazz styles such as Samba, Choro, Baiao, Bossa Nova and Partido Alto.

This concert features virtuoso seven-string bassist and composer Leonardo Lucini from Brazil and American drummer Harold Summey, a Monk competition winner with a deep sense of groove. Also featured is Canadian saxophonist Jeff Antoniuk, who contributes his mastery of West African rhythms. Cuban-Venezuelan musician César Orozco will be at the piano. Audiences can expect outstanding ensemble playing and impressive solos from these virtuosos.

The program includes Leonardo Lucini’s unique arrangement of Duke Ellington’s “In A Sentimental Mood,” commissioned for a special Kennedy Center concert. Another highlight is a slow and sultry samba entitled “Man’s Best Friend,” by Jeff Antoniuk and recorded on the Jazz Update’s album Here Today. Listeners will be enthralled by an extraordinary treatment of “One Note Samba,” from Lucini. It begins with an extended bass solo in which he masterfully emulates the sound of a berimbau.

In the past two years, the group has played to packed houses in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Annapolis, and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Brazil Project sold out their last Twins Jazz performance and expects to do the same with this appearance. So early reservations are in order! This will be Brazil Project’s first appearance of the new season in the U Street jazz district.