Two Roses (LP)

Avishai Cohen’s Two Roses is a mesmerizing fusion of jazz and orchestral grandeur, released on April 16, 2021, under the Naive label. Recorded with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Alexander Hanson, this 12-track album blends Cohen’s signature trio—featuring Mark Guiliana and Elchin Shirinov—with the sweeping presence of a full symphony, creating a cinematic soundscape that transcends genre boundaries.

The album opens with the dreamy "Almah Sleeping" and traverses lush landscapes through tracks like the evocative "When I’m Falling" and the tender "Song for My Brother." A standout is the inclusion of the Israeli classic "Shnei Shoshanim (Two Roses)," reimagined with orchestral richness, alongside jazz standards like "Nature Boy" and a vibrant "Arab Medley." Cohen’s bass-driven compositions, such as "Puncha Puncha" and "Alon Basela," pulse with rhythmic vitality, while pieces like "Morenika" and "Nature Talking" showcase his melodic and introspective side.

Clocking in at just over an hour, Two Roses is a masterclass in orchestral jazz, where Cohen’s artistry shines through every arrangement. Whether it’s the interplay of strings and rhythm or the emotional depth of his compositions, the album is a testament to his visionary approach to music. For listeners of jazz, contemporary, or orchestral works, this is a captivating exploration of sound and emotion.