| World Music |
Between jazz and world music, Quadro Nuevo was founded in 1996 at the initiative of two school friends, Mulo Francel and Didi Lowka. Since then, the small family has grown. For example, on this album, we find:
- Mulo Francel | Tenor Sax, Clarinets, Mandolin, Whistle, Flute, Tenor Recorder
- Andreas Hinterseher | Accordion, Vibrandoneon, Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Trombone
- D.D Lowka | Bass, Percussion, with guests Chris Gall | Piano, Harpejji, Pandeiro, Tim Collins | Vibraphone, Voice, Drums, Shaker, Paul Morello | Jazz Guitar, Spanish Guitar, Cavaquinho, Phillip Schiepek | Jazz Guitar, Spanish Guitar, Marco Lobo | Brazilian Percussion.
Quadro Nuevo explores the pathways of world music, blending arabesques, Balkan swing, and daring improvisations in an acoustic mode. However, this time, their new creation turns towards Brazil. With the philosophy, “Even in times of crisis and war, music can offer a positive alternative world,” the ensemble reflects. With refreshing reinterpretations of iconic hits such as Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” and Bobby McFerrin’s “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” paired with newly crafted originals like “Here and Now,” Quadro Nuevo believes that “HAPPY Deluxe” encapsulates the enthusiasm of their journey and their tireless quest to create authentic and captivating music.
Their passion for music and cultures, represented here like paintings, snapshots of life, with charm and poetic form, heavily influenced by the sounds, images, and energy of their recent tour in Brazil. The group was so intoxicated by the pulsating samba, lively chorinho, and sunny bossa nova that they felt compelled to quickly dive into a recording studio in Rio. By incorporating the exuberance and rhythmic frameworks of Latin music into their sound, “HAPPY Deluxe” blends light melodies, delicate nylon guitar, thoughtful compositions, and effortless improvisations from every corner of the ensemble into a thoughtful tribute to moments of happiness.
Taking a tour of Quadro Nuevo’s albums reveals the influence of their touring travels on their music. In this sense, they are quite close to the visual artist Olivier de Cayron, who has long imbued his work with the essence of his travels. Often for creators, these are colors, sounds, impressions, settings; confronting one’s being with various cultures changes the way of perceiving the world, of perceiving one’s art.
This album is a favorite, an invitation to travel, to dream. Quadro Nuevo has given over 4000 concerts worldwide. After receiving coveted awards, including two ECHO awards, a gold record, and the German Record Critics’ Award, the quartet continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, March 17th 2024
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