As the sole architect of my latest musical endeavor, “New Aurora,” I find myself compelled to reflect on the creative processes, inspirations, and musical choices that shaped this acoustic quartet album. The departure from my previous works, featuring large ensembles and intricate arrangements, allowed me to embark on a journey of self-expression, drawing inspiration from various sources and weaving a narrative that mirrors my musical evolution.
The genesis of “New Aurora” can be traced back to the persistent encouragement, or rather insistence, of engineer/producer Luis Bacque. The vision to venture into a freer, more acoustic setting, placing my melodic voice at the forefront, materialized during a session at Bacque Recording Studios in New Jersey. Accompanied by Santiago Leibson on piano, Matt Pavolka on bass, and Dayeon Seok on drums, we set the foundation for what would become the first two tracks of the album.
The opening composition, “This Is Only The Beginning,” germinated in a Florida hotel room during the early days of 2019, inspired by Haruki Murakami’s novel “Killing Commendatore.” The narrative of a mid-life crisis and the proclamation of a new beginning resonated with me, setting the tone for the album. Following this, “Scottie(33)” pays homage to the iconic Scottie Pippen, exploring a subdued atmosphere and a dynamic hip-hop groove in 7 and 15, symbolizing Pippen’s six championships.
The heart of the project, the track “Aurora,” carries a poignant significance. Written in response to a mass shooting in Aurora, Illinois, on February 15, 2019, the composition alternates between sus2 and sus4 chords, capturing a somber mood reflective of the tragic events. The juxtaposition of the literal meaning of Aurora, “dawn,” with the grim reality of a mass shooting, underscores the complexity of emotions embedded in the piece.
“Dle Yaman,” dedicated to my cousin Nick, embraces a more traditional jazz feel, drawing from Nicolas Slonimsky’s Thesaurus of Scales and Melodic Patterns. The scale-based composition, marked by a fast and gritty swing, reflects my affinity for the blues genre. This track serves as a testament to my penchant for exploring diverse musical elements within a single project.
The inclusion of two arrangements of Komitas’s compositions, “Portrait of a Postman” and “Chinar Es,” pays homage to my Armenian heritage. “Dle Yaman,” originally a love song, transforms into a melody of loss and longing after the Armenian genocide. The traditional Armenian rhythm curcuna in 10/8 infuses “Chinar Es” with a playful yet nostalgic quality, as I explore the cultural roots of my ancestry.
“Mountains” delves into the landscapes of my family’s heritage, tracing a journey from historical Armenia to Istanbul, Romania, and finally to my current home in New York City. With the ancestral connection to the word “Sarian,” meaning “son of the mountain,” this track incorporates layered elements, including Armenian rhythms, a static bass and piano beat, and a floating flugelhorn melody.
“The Morning After,” introduced on the eve of the December sessions, captures the essence of post-celebratory introspection. Starting with a Beatles-esque piano motif, the track evolves into a free improvisation, reflecting the transient nature of revelry and the subsequent contemplation.
“Colorado Yeta,” the only recycled tune from my septet’s previous record, encapsulates the sorrows of growing up as a redhead in Argentina. The album concludes with a rendition of Monk’s “Ask Me Now,” a duet with piano that serves as a palate cleanser, bringing a sense of closure to the diverse musical journey presented in “New Aurora.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, “New Aurora” is not merely a collection of compositions; it is a sonic exploration of self-discovery, cultural roots, and artistic evolution. The decision to strip down to an acoustic quartet allowed me to embrace vulnerability and showcase my individual voice as a trumpeter. Drawing inspiration from literature, sports, personal experiences, and cultural heritage, each track contributes to a rich tapestry that defines the essence of this album. As I navigate the intricate realms of acoustic expression, “New Aurora” stands as a testament to my musical evolution and a celebration of diverse influences that shape my artistic identity.
