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Sabrina Lastman begins “Axis” using her voice as an instrument. That’s only a taste of things to come as the Montevideo, Uruguay native presents The Candombe Jazz Sessions (Zoho Music, 2012). Lastman is based in New York. Candombe is the percussion-driven genre that has origins in African Bantu. The set represents the music audiences have come to expect when Lastman performs. The core ensemble is comprised of Emilio Solla on piano; Pablo Aslan on double bass; and David Silliman on drums and percussion. Several guests appear on selected tracks. “Axis” begins as if Lastman were a human trumpet, introducing the piece. The voice scats its way through, complemented by the instruments, including a middle solo by violinist Meg Okura. It’s one of seven original songs written or co-written by Lastman. The other three are Uruguayan/Brazilian standards. “Tengo Un Candombe Para Gardel” is similar in style. Lastman sings as well as scats. As the title implies, this track is driven by the percussion. Silliman is aided by Arturo Prendez, Manuel Silva and Fabricio Teodoro. Lastman studied classical singing and piano in Montevideo and later moved to Israel, where she studied jazz at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance. She draws inspiration from classical music, jazz, Brazilian and other styles. The Candombe Jazz Sessions not only demonstrates her passion for that genre of music, but also shows Lastman’s skill in musical storytelling, both with and without words.
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