Bilbao
Gorka Benítez

Featuring: Gorka Benítez (ts), Dani Perez (g), Rai Ferrer (b), and David Xirgu (d).

REFERENCE: FSNT-281
BAR CODE: 8427328422819

Tracklisting:

• 1. Una manera de empezar
• 2. Because of you
• 3. Asken zortziko bat (*) Dedicated to Pilar Ormaetxea
• 4. Y dale!
• 5. Plaza gris
• 6. Ronda Kalea
• 7. Cantan los charcos el lamento de las gabarras
• 8. Otra manera de acabar

Recorded, mixed and mastered by Jordi Vidal at Laietana Studios, Barcelona, October 16th, 2003.

Remixed, April 11th & 28th, 2006.

Basque saxophonist Gorka Benítez, focuses his skills on a completely self-penned set —except for a swinging reading of the well-known standard “Because of You”— inspired by the city where he grew up. It is, to a certain extent, a contemporary post-bop session with varied pieces, full of surprises and wit that present the many different aspects of Benitez’s formidable improvising talents. Gorka is backed by a supporting band of close-friends consisting of guitarist Dani Perez, bassist Rai Ferrer and David Xirgu on drums.

Review:

**** by Roger Roca

“Para el saxofonista vasco, su ciudad natal sabe a óxido y cemento, pero también esconde belleza asomando entre las ruinas. La dibuja a cuarteto con un jazz de formas angulosas, melodías claras y una sensibilidad que eriza el vello.”