ARUÁN ORTIZ’ ORBITING QUARTET

21st century jazz by great talents from New York. ‘Cuba-born Aruán Ortiz is one of the most versatile and exciting pianists of his generation’ (Downbeat).

Ever since his migration from Cuba to New York in 2008, pianist Aruán Ortiz is going strong. With his quartet, which can also be heard on the album Orbiting (2012), he reveals kinship to the adventurous downtown scene: jazz, contemporary classical and indigenous music come together in a typically 21st century style. Prominently featured is guitarist David Gilmore (of Wayne Shorter and Don Byron fame), ‘soling with a dash of rock and Brazilian’ (Something Else).

Simultaneously with Orbiting, Ortiz released a second album which displayed his talent for Afro-Cuban and composed music. This Santiarican Blues Suite (2012) was voted as one of the best albums of the year by Downbeat, just like the later release Banned in London, a cracking live album with bassist/co-leader Michael Janisch. Since 2008 Ortiz has been playing in the Wallace Roney Quintet and he has collaborated with among others Esperanza Spalding, Joe Lovano and Greg Osby.

‘Cuba-born and New York-based pianist Aruán Ortiz is one of the most versatile and exciting pianists of his generation. His left-of-center approach to improvisation and melody often recalls legendary renegades such as Andrew Hill and Horace Tapscott’ (Downbeat).

The Bimhuis restaurant is open prior to the concert from 6.30 til 8.30PM (reservations via 020-7882158). After the concert, the Bimhuis Café is open (free entrance).