Joan Monné - New Bottles, Old Wine

2024

Joan Monné (p), Santi de la Rubia (ts), Òscar Latorre (tp), Rai Ferrer (b)

With this new project, my aim has been to revisit some of the compositions that I had recorded in previous groups such as the trio, Nou Nonet or the quartet with Carme Canela, and through this new drummerless formation, give these compositions a fresh voice. To achieve this, I’ve surrounded myself with these three great musicians who have assisted me in bringing forth new life unto these old songs.

Santi was one of the members of Nou Nonet, a project from 2005 which was integrated by some of my students at the time. He was also the artist featured in the Concerto for de la Blonde, a concert in three movements written for saxophone and big band. This work, which I wrote with him in mind as a soloist, was first performed under the 2022 Esmuc Jazz Project banner. I would like to point out the versatility of his sound, which can range from great intensity and energy to the most tender and delicate subtlety, as well as his flawless technique and his prolific and exuberant musical language.

I became aware of the impressive Oscar Latorre and his distinctive capacity to extemporize fluid and lyrical discourses, when I first met him in ensemble and improvisations courses. I enjoyed following his progress through those years, culminating in avery memorable final recital. I relied on him on different editions of Esmuc Jazz Project, like the time were we performed a work I wrote for symphony orchestra and jazz quintet to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the college. Apart from being an exquisite soloist, Òscar also possesses a captivating sound which complements perfectly with Santi’s sax.

I have known Rai since we first studied together at the Taller de Músics. Together we’ve run the gamut of rehearsals, concerts and tours throughout the years. The trio with David Xirgu, the quartet with Carme Canela, and many other countless groups, situations and experiences. After a number of years in which our paths hadn’t crossed, I am extremely pleased that this project has once again brought us together. His knowledge of my music and his rock-solid, earthy support, reassures the rest of us, providing the understanding that regardless of how far our musical flights may take us, we’re sure to return to a safe harbor [...]

—Joan Monné (taken from the inside liner notes)
Translation by Dee Jay Foster