Reviews

"Mattan Klein is one of the finest contemporary jazz flutists performing today. He wowed the NJW audience in his first Nashville appearance last summer, and we're fortunate to have him for a return visit. His quintet is truly international, and includes Manu Koch (piano), Gustavo Amarante (bass), Yuval Lion (drums), and Joca Perpignan (percussion)".

Nashville Jazz Workshop


"I have to admit that I was little ambivalent about what to do on Friday night the 11th; the California Guitar Trio, a Robert Fripp-influenced ensemble that I like, was at the Clifton Center the same night as The Mattan Klein Quintet was appearing at the Jazz Factory. I opted for the unfamiliar and was highly pleased with my choice. Klein is a flutist, originally from Israel, who leads a multinational quintet that consists of Swiss pianist Manu Koch, Brazilian electric bassist Gustavo Amarante, Israeli drummer Dan Aran and Brazilian percussionist Joca Perpignan. The opening number "Yamba Samba" ("Lots of Samba") showed that this group played Brazilian jazz with authenticity. Guitarist Avi Rothbard was not present due to his having recently become a father; he was represented, however, by his song "Unstable," which appears on Klein's CD LoveAlive. "Laximum," dedicated to a friend's dog, was a fast, polyrhythmic workout, held together by Amarante's steady bass. "The Lost Kid" featured solos by Klein, Koch and Amarante over a funky backbeat. A slow pretty tune, "Pra Ela," also from the CD, was next. The last song of the evening was a fast-paced rendition of Egberto Gismonti's "Frevo," which has also been covered by jazz factory favorite Lynne Arriale. Perpignan's conga and percussion work on this song was outstanding. Klein's flutework throughout was clear and rhythmic".

Martin Z. Kasdan Jr.
Jazz Columnist and Writer, Louisville Music News (September 2006)
www.louisvillemusic.net


"Klein's 'Project White Chocolate' performs exquisite Brazilian and original music... their convoy lands in Rio de Janeiro but immediately takes off to explore the territory of contemporary Jazz where they possess a strong knowledge of the local dialect... a wonderful bar of quality white chocolate indeed".

Asher Kesher, Jazz Critic, Kol Hazman, Jerusalem (Sept. 17, 2004)



"Masterful technique of a well rehearsed ensemble... fresh and original compositions which are both enlighting and entertaining".

Uri D. Herscher, President and CEO, Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles



�An ensemble ripe and ready, equipped with a mature and complete sound, and an ability to bring out the best of its art�.

�New worlds of sound and rhythm dicovered by a musical group which has reached artistic maturity�.

Noam Biton, Editor, Zman Modi'in



�Wonderful musicians who are creative individully and as a group.�

�A veteran ensemble with excellent interaction and harmonious togetherness.�

Eliyahu Schleifer Ph.D, HUCJIR, Jerusalem


"Mattan's passion about the power of music to create moments of K'dushah is inspiring".

Rabbi Sue Ann Wasserman, Director, Department of Worship, Music and Religious Living, Union for Reform Judaism