Avishai Cohen
A dream-come-true collaboration of two of the leading figures in contemporary music today. The ‘ Amity ‘ Duet, inspired through Friendship, Peace , Harmony and Mutual understanding. Makoto Ozone and Avishai Cohen, are both unique creators of jazz in the world today with substantial paths and careers forged, who are also both closely intertwined to belated jazz legend Chick Corea. They will join forces presenting a series of intimate acoustic performances throughout the globe during 2023 - 2024.
‘’I’m very excited teaming up with Makoto Ozone! Makoto has a rare kind of command on piano mastering both classical and jazz abilities which to me is the perfect combination.’’ Avishai Cohen - November 2022.
Avishai Cohen, born in Kabri, Israel on April 20th, 1970, grew up in a multicultural family whose roots were found in Spain, Greece and Poland. At home, music was always in the air, with his mother Ora, an artistic influence, listening to both classical and traditional music. Avishai’s musical journey began when he was nine years old, when he began playing the piano. After moving to St. Louis, Missouri with his family aged fourteen, he continued to study the piano and began to play the bass guitar. The electric bass put a spell on him when his teacher introduced him to the music of luminary bassist Jaco Pastorius. Back in Israel, Avishai joined the Music and Arts Academy in Jerusalem to further explore the bass universe. At the age of 22, having served for two years in an army band, he decided to take a big step and moved to New York City.
Avishai’s first four albums, (Adama, 1998 Devotion, 1999 Colours, 2000 Unity, 2001) were released under Corea’s label ‘Stretch / Concord Records’ and already featured the essence of his music and original compositions; Mediterranean and Latin influences, and the use of horns and vocals created a sound that was truly unique.
Lyla (2003), Avishai’s debut release on Razdaz Recordz , reflected his multitalented artistic personality, ranging from Latin rhythms to electronics, and jazz. The cosmopolitan Continuo (2006) followed with great success and displayed the magic of a working band. In 2007, the live recording As Is, Live at the Blue Note marked his return to New York for a series of concerts at the legendary Blue Note jazz club. With Gently Disturbed (2008), Avishai achieved a masterstroke, hitting the right balance between a powerful trio recording, and delicate compositions. This release was an amalgamation of melody and groove, complexity and simplicity that redefined the concept of jazz, and ‘raised the bar’ for fellow Jazz musicians.
2021 will bring a return to “on the road live shows” new music releases, including the culmination of one of Avishai’s most beloved and acclaimed projects. Stay tuned!
