Zen Ensemble – Garden of Time

On Sonidos De Aquel Dia, which translates to “Sounds of that Day”, two talented young prodigies come together to deliver a melodic, latin fusion masterpiece. Bassist César Franov, who later played with Spinetta Jade, was only 16 when this record was released while guitarist Quique Sinesi, who is now known as one of Argentina’s leading jazz guitarists, was just 21. The situation reminds us a lot of Pat Metheny’s first album Bright Size Life that featured a young Jaco Pastorius and veteran drummer Bob Moses. Franov and Sinesi are similarly supported here by an experienced vet, Argentinian rock legend Litto Nebbia, who delivers absolutely sublime vocals on the album’s standout track B4 Olia. Other highlights include A3 Caja De Ilusiones with its interesting avant-garde style groove and the B2 Alma Linda with warm, organic flute.
– Phil Cho
Recommended – B4 Olia, A3 Caja De Ilusiones, B1 Jalva, B2 Alma Linda
A1 Memorias De Salta
A2 Sudan
A3 Caja De Ilusiones
B1 Jalva
B2 Alma Linda
B3 El Pibe En Israel
B4 Olia
Bass, Synthesizer, Percussion – César Franov
Drums, Percussion – Marcelo Rucillo
Guitar, Percussion, Flute – Quique Sinesi
Lead Vocals – Marcelo Fraga
Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals – Litto Nebbia
Synthesizer – Alejandro Franov (tracks: 2,3)