Kalemegdan Disk - ROCK FROM EASTERN EUROPE

Tracklist

Side A

1. Ndolah Cherry 8:25
2. Reverie 3:40
3. Night Bird 6:17

Side B

1. It’s not You, It’s Me 5:35
2. Gardenian 8:11
3. Soulstep 4:22

Full album at YouTube

Croatia Records Release Information

Saxophonist and composer Mario Bočić and his quartet present the new album “Wheel of Fortune”, a project that confirms his commitment to contemporary jazz and exploring the sonic boundaries within the rich jazz tradition.

The album was recorded at the renowned Artesuono studio in Udine (Italy), under the direction of the esteemed sound engineer Stefano Amerio, known for his exceptional sound quality and musical sensitivity.

“We recorded the album at the Artesuono studio in Udine, with the wonderful Stefano Amerio, whose studio is truly an exceptional space to work in. Stefano is a top-notch sound engineer, attentive, musical, and always dedicated to detail, so the recording process itself was a real pleasure,” said Bočić.

The album was mixed by Dom Camardella, who is also the project’s co-producer. Bočić noted that the collaboration came about thanks to his fascination with Camardella’s work on albums by the legendary Charles Lloyd. “Dom is a true master of his craft, and working with him was an inspiring and stimulating experience,” Bočić stated.

The vinyl edition was mastered by Kevin Gray, a world-renowned expert who has worked with numerous internationally acclaimed musicians. “I feel truly honored to have had the opportunity to collaborate with three such professionals – Stefano, Dom, and Kevin. Each of them contributed to bringing this album to life in its full glory, and for that, I am truly happy,” adds Bočić.

The Mario Bočić Quartet is an example of how a contemporary jazz ensemble can explore the boundaries of the genre while remaining rooted in the classic jazz tradition. The ensemble consists of: Mario Bočić (tenor saxophone), Hrvoje Galler (piano), Zvonimir Šestak (double bass), Kruno Levačić (drums).

Each member of the ensemble is a prominent musician with extensive domestic and international experience. Their mutual musical chemistry and openness to improvisation are the key to the quartet’s distinctive sound. Kruno Levačić, one of the most respected jazz drummers in former Yugoslavia, provides the performance with dynamism and fluidity; Hrvoje Galler, with his rich harmonies, contributes to subtle expression and melodic inventiveness; while Zvonimir Šestak, with his precise double bass technique, ensures a stable yet rich sonic foundation.

At the heart of it all is Bočić’s saxophone – narrative, emotional, and expressive, building a dialogue with the rest of the ensemble and turning each piece into a living, interactive musical story. “Wheel of Fortune” takes the listener on an introspective and contemplative journey through sound and emotion.

The quartet’s music exudes mutual understanding, a love for jazz, and a deep respect for the moment of creation – resulting in an album that inspires, connects, and lingers.