Set for release May 27, 2022 is the new album by the Jimmy Branly trio. Branly has had a busy career playing with A-list artists. His attention to detail as a drummer and a bandleader are evident on this recording. The sound elements include a mix of world music and jazz. The combination sometimes yields a sound that is not unlike jazz fusion, where jazz and rock meet. One song that should not be missed on this stellar album is “If I Should Lose You.”
The sound of Jimmy Branly: “If I Should Lose You”
The trio shines brightly on their version of Ralph Rainger’s “If I Should Lose You.” The 1936 pop song gets a fresh re-do in the hands of the Jimmy Branly Trio. With modern elements, such as a noticeable rock feel, “If I Should Lose You” is made a classic all over again.
The opening percussion might remind listeners of a beating heart. That would make sense – – the theme here is love. The mood is intense, even as the musical dynamics shift a bit. The trio’s intent can be felt, and it creates a high level of engagement in listeners.
The guitar carries the melody and has a nearly liquid quality. The bass is groovy and thoughtful. The heavier drums mesh nicely with the lively cymbals. The song takes on a life of its own, whether listeners have heard it or not. The rock elements that Branly was inspired by as a youth seem to play a role in the overall feel of this song.
About Jimmy Branly
The way Branly pays could lead audiences to believe that he has spent years in conservatories honing his craft. However, growing up in Cuba did not lend itself to providing that sort of foundation. He became interested in rock music when his dad gave him a copy of Deep Purple’s 1972 live album, “Made in Japan.” Branly was particularly struck by the drumming he found on the album. The playing style of Deep Purple’s Alan Paice made Branly want to become a drummer himself.
Economic conditions in Cuba kept Branly from affording a real drum kit, so the enterprising youth made his own. Using x-ray film and other materials, he made his own drums. Branly would continue listening to rock music, adding Rush, Led Zeppelin, and The Beatles to his popular music arsenal. Eventually, he discovered jazz. Listening to Coltrane and Chick Corea.
Branly’s road to professional musicianship arrived abruptly when he was 15 years old. A group of older musicians took him from music school when they needed a drummer. Branly never returned. The rest is jazz and world music history.
Branly îs joined by guitarist Will Brahm and bassist Ahmet Turkmenoglu. Both Brahm and Turkmenoglu are based in Los Angeles. They have played with world-renowned musicians, and placed well in international jazz competitions.
While the album, “The Meeting” was available digitally January 2022, CDs will be available May 27, 2022. For more information visit:http://www.branlymusic.com
