Folk Bands and Artists
Bahla
Fronted by Venezuelan pianist Joseph Costi and English guitarist Tal Janes, BAHLA sonically paints a picture of the past, present and future of Jewish identity, channeled through the rich traditions of jazz. The writing process is fed by tracing the history of the well-traveled, wandering Jew. Inspiration is not only drawn from recordings and music scores, but also through research and the understanding of social circumstance. Although the pieces are delicately crafted, often with a classical Hebraic approach, they embrace the tradition of jazz composition and allow space for interpretation and innovation. The band draws inspiration from giants of jazz such as John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock and Bill Frisell, but also explores Middle Eastern traditions of improvisation.
Still in its early stages, Bahla was selected to perform at the BBC Proms in 2015 as a promising emerging band. The band is working towards recording an album and future tours, whilst constantly searching for new material. The band embraces a modern society of different cultures and the juxtaposition of tradition and contemporary values, in the hope of presenting something exciting, meaningful and moving.
Tal Janes – guitar
Joseph Costi – piano
Greg Gottlieb – bass
Ben Brown – drums
www.bahla.co.uk
