Saxophonist and composer Kārlis Vanags has released his new album, “The 7th Sense,” in collaboration with the Latvian Radio Massive Band. The album, released under the Jersika Records label, is already garnering attention from jazz enthusiasts.
The album was digitally recorded by sound engineer Gustavs Ērenpreiss. Physical copies of the vinyl are available in music stores, on the Jersika Records website, and through Bandcamp. It’s also available on major streaming platforms, making the music widely accessible. The album cover features photographs by Aija Vanaga, with design by Edgar and Marek Ameriki.
“I am excited to share ‘The 7th Sense’ with listeners,” said Kārlis Vanags. “Sketches and ideas accumulated over several years, born purely from inspiration, have been compiled into seven tracks. I am grateful to the musicians of the Latvian Radio Big Band for their immense dedication and talent, which brought this music to life!”
While billed as a solo release, “The 7th Sense” is a true showcase of the Latvian Radio Big Band’s musicianship, with Vanags sometimes taking a backseat to allow the ensemble to shine. However, Vanags’ own playing remains a highlight throughout the album. The essence of the work is immediately apparent in the opening track, “Almost There,” which clocks in at nine and a half minutes, but listeners are encouraged to explore the entire musical journey.
The album is sure to sound even more captivating live – though one reviewer was unable to attend the concert at the Riga Congress Hall – as is often the case with jazz, where the energy and passion of the performers truly elevate the experience. “The 7th Sense” is best enjoyed as a complete work, though if pressed, the reviewer particularly enjoyed “Evaluation” with its complex rhythms and cinematic, suspenseful mood, and “Assumptions,” which incorporates unique synthesizer sounds.
