Fabio Rojas – Perseverance (ENG review)

Street date September 19
Jazz
Fabio Rojas – Perseverance

Here is an artist whose name you will quickly remember once you hear it. Fabio Rojas, originally from Venezuela, came to the United States 14 years ago to pursue his musical studies at the Berklee College of Music. Guided by the proverb ‘el que persevera, vence‘ (he who perseveres, wins), Rojas’s new album reflects Venezuela’s transition from a prosperous democracy to a dictatorship, as well as the blood, sweat, and tears of his personal journey in music.

The result is impressive: a composer both inspired and inspiring, a fascinating drummer, and evidently capable of delivering particularly impressive arrangements. While others might place their favorite instrument in the background, Rojas bases each track on incredible rhythms that bring a vivacity to this album, where all the protagonists seem in perfect harmony with Fabio Rojas. The lineup includes Fabio Rojas on drums, compositions, and production; Greg Osby on alto saxophone; Gustavo D’amico on tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, and flute; Kevin Harris on piano and Rhodes; and Osmar Okuma on double bass and electric bass. All these musicians are inspiring through their musical approach and the quality of their performance. This set will be particularly appreciated at festivals, as the overflowing energy of this album deserves to see a crowd of spectators jumping and shouting at the end of a solo or a track. Undoubtedly, Rojas’s origins significantly influence his compositions; one can barely detect it in certain melodic lines. This is one of the most brilliant albums I have had in my hands in recent years. However, it is not for everyone; this complex music would certainly perplex those who are unfamiliar with jazz or prefer more classical jazz.

Rojas’s career in New York has seen him perform at prestigious venues and festivals such as SXSW, Lincoln Center, and the Daegu Jazz Festival (KR) with a host of celebrated musicians like Geri Allen, the Greg Osby Band, Grace VanderWaal, Pepe De Lucia, and many others. His quintet on ‘Perseverance’ includes some of the best musicians in New York, including saxophone legend Greg Osby, Grammy-nominated bassist Osmar Okuma, and the renowned Gustavo D’amico and Kevin Harris on saxophone/flute and piano, respectively.

As I mentioned earlier, and as one can quickly understand, the creations on this album stem from the political turmoil in Venezuela and its impact on all aspects of Rojas’s life. The saxophones mimic the sound of sirens in tight dissonant clusters, and the piano’s rhythmic motif in ‘Ni un paso atrás’ is a transcription of the chant shouted by thousands of Venezuelans during protests, ‘Not one step back!’ Modern and elegant drum grooves, Venezuelan folk rhythms, and complex contemporary harmony are woven together through Rojas’s personal and complex compositional voice.

The diverse experiences of this artist make him a unique creator whose works cannot be compared to others. Accepting this artist’s musical propositions also means opening our minds to the world. The thirst for freedom is felt in his writing. Like all immigrants in the USA, including him, me, and others, it is primarily this thirst for freedom that was lacking in our countries of origin that changes our views of the world and life in general. Is there a typically Latino form of writing? It would be dangerous to believe so, as there are as many cultural differences in the Latino world as in other realms. This beautiful richness enriches us, and we are honored to say, ‘this album is indispensable!’

Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News

PARIS-MOVE, August 2nd 2024

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“Perseverance” Album Release
Sunday, September 22 2024
Doors: 7:00 PM / Performance: 7:30 PM
$15 in advance / $20 at door

Experience the powerful journey of Fabio Rojas in “Perseverance,” an album reflecting his life from growing up in Venezuela to fulfilling dreams in the US. Witness a tale of resilience inspired by the quote, “he who perseveres, wins.” Featuring original compositions and a stellar lineup including jazz legend Greg Osby, this release show promises an unforgettable musical experience.