3 Cohens

Braid

The 3 Cohens—siblings Yuval (soprano and tenor saxophones), Anat (clarinet and tenor saxophone), and Avishai (trumpet)—have been making music together since childhood. Their 2007 album, Braid, exemplifies their deep familial connection and shared musical vision. As noted by All About Jazz, "What becomes apparent by the end of Braid is that this is a real band, reaching a level of communication bound by family ties, deepened by long hours on the bandstand and enlivened by an obvious love of the artform."

The album features a blend of original compositions and jazz standards, showcasing the Cohens' versatility and cohesive interplay. Tracks like "Freedom" and "Braid" highlight their ability to seamlessly weave complex melodies and harmonies, while their rendition of "Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?" pays homage to jazz traditions. The inclusion of renowned musicians Aaron Goldberg on piano, Omer Avital on bass, and Eric Harland on drums adds depth and dynamism to the ensemble's sound.

Critics have praised Braid for its arresting compositions and the trio's remarkable synergy. The New York Times referred to it as an "arresting sophomore album," while the Village Voice dubbed it a "polyphonic pip." DownBeat highlighted the group's distinctive identity, stating, "Rarely in the history of jazz family bands have siblings so successfully created a unified group sound with as distinctive an identity as the Israel-born Cohens."

Braid not only solidifies the 3 Cohens' place in the jazz world but also serves as a testament to their shared musical journey. Their intuitive communication and passion for the art form are evident throughout the album, making it a compelling listen for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.