Romann is the sophomore album from Macedonian-born guitarist/composer Filip Dinev. The aesthetic is attractive from the very start – I mean just check out the album cover art by Vane Kosturanov – how cool is that?
Within seven tracks, Filip takes you into his musical world via his six compositions and his arrangement of the modern Beatles classic, Blackbird.
Traces of Julian Lage are what I first hear in the album with the the track Reindeers Quit, along with a beautiful sense of mystery, energy and excitement. It’s often easier to be in the box: either be all out fusion or play more straight ahead… but with Filip, he seems to comfortable in his own sound that blends the composed sections with his improvisations in a fluid way. The overdriven guitar sound fits the vibe of the music and provides a nice contrast to the upright bass sound. Filip’s improvised guitar solo is lyrical and builds up motivically, balancing rhythmically interesting phrases along with busier lines that build the intensity. You can also hear tinges of blues and rock in the solo. Tilman Oberbeck takes a solo and Filip accompanies tastefully creating nice textures before coming back with chordal stabs that lead into the theme.
Moving on, in Should Be Easy, the vibe gets more uptempo. I could hear hints of Wolfgang Muthspiel, with the agressive rock energy and flowing performance from the trio. The double stops in Filip’s playing along with his legato phrases, rhythmic stabs, rock and roll vibe mixed together flow so well. I wish I had a better way of describing it but this track has the kind of sound that I hear from folks like bassist Dieter Ilg.
Morgenland begins contemplative and then builds up into Filip’s perhaps more Balkan sounds in his solo? I am not too familiar with the melodic language so it sounds fresh and fun. The riff part that Filip plays in the middle part of the piece before the solo establishes the improvisation section. Some of it reminds me of oud kind of ornamentation mixed with more modern jazz arpeggio sounds. The textural chordal section that ends his solo is especially cool.
The Magic Kaval continues the album with more strummy rock vibes ‘ala Nir Felder and Julian Lage. The solo is intense and driving throughout until the melody comes back in. It does feel like there are some African influences in the melody particularly in the riff when the drums takes a solo. It’s really a cool theme.
Last Dance brings things down with what seems to be a ballad vibe, just before it goes upbeat again. Filip’s solo here is much like his other single note playing before this, just the right mix of lyrical playing, long flowing lines, some jagged rhythmic phrases that suprises you and repeated rhythmically driven repeated single notes with some bluesy rock vibes.
Blackbird opens with a rhythmic figure from Tilman Oberbeck that sets the mood before drums and guitar comes in. The introduction is open and it’s not obvious that we are about to hear a rendition of Blackbird at this point – that is until Filip plays the melody and his take on the classic guitar part. The guitar solo is bookended with natural harmonics and is tastefully done. Jan Zeimetz takes a solo which quotes the melody rhythmically in a cool way. I didn’t notice this the first time but heard it on a later listening.
Hamburg closes the album with Filip playing a two-part counterpoint on guitar before the band comes in. There’s a feeling of nostalgia in the song which again reminds me of the feeling I heard on Should Be Easy earlier in the album. Tilman Oberbeck takes a spacious bass solo with expressive dynamics while Filip keeps the pulse driving in his guitar part before recording a loop of his part and soloing over it. Filip is certainly discerning in his use of his effects pedals, with choices that enhance the music in a clear way. The feedback to the loop at the end is such a cool way to close the record. Nice one!
All in all, this is a fresh album from an interesting guitarist. I recommend this album for anyone looking for something different. If you like players like Julian Lage, Nir Felder – this might just be up your alley. I certainly look forward to more original music from Filip in the future. This is not necessarily an easy listen, but definitely is rewarding more and more as you listen to it again.
Rating: 4/5
Find out about Filip’s concerts, masterclasses, tour dates and more on his website: https://filipdinevmusic.com/
I received a complimentary advance copy of this album courtesy of Liam of Jazzfuel. Thank you for the CD.
About Filip Dinev
Known for his compelling blend of Balkan, pop, classical music, and sprinkling of blues, Macedonian-born guitarist/composer Filip Dinev‘s musical magic has been admired at celebrated international concerts in Paris, Budapest, Tallinn, and Hamburg, among many others.
Now, this heralded “Best Young Jazz Musician” recipient (Jazz Factory Festival, North Macedonia) presents his sophomore album ‘Romann’, set to release on January 19th.
The record follows his meditative 2020 debut ‘Szevtlo’, providing great contrast in energy yet united by Dinev’s melodic approach to the guitar as well as a raw, organic production style.
Recorded in Hamburg‘s illustrious MUT! Theater, the record embodies the full force of Dinev’s fearless approach to the modern guitar trio format. Collaborating with Tilman Oberbeck (Richie Beirach, Chris Cheek, Jorge Rossy) on double bass and Jan Zeimetz on drums/percussion, the record dances fearlessly in present moments of spontaneity, unveiling a universe where Balkan music, classical counterpoint inspirations, jazz, and blues harmoniously coexist.
From personal interpretations of Lennon/McCartney‘s iconic “Blackbird” to original compositions exploring the cultural and musical facets of the young guitarist’s identity such as the third track “Morgenland”, each song encapsulates distinct elements of Dinev’s Balkan heritage, whilst showcasing his skill over complex folk rhythms, forward-thinking use of effects, and songwriting prowess. Vivacious drum grooves, gritty distorted guitar tones, spacious reverbs, extended harmony and propulsive acoustic basslines craft a sound and energy impressively larger than one might expect from a three piece.
Each piece on ‘Romann’ is accompanied by a live performance video available on Youtube.
Filip Dinev | Guitar, Compositions
Tilman Oberbeck | Double Bass
Jan Zeimetz | Drums, Percussion