Anat Cohen

Claroscuro

Released: September 2012

Anat Cohen—celebrated worldwide for her expressive virtuosity on clarinet and saxophone, as well as the sheer joie de vivre she brings to the stage—continues her artistic evolution with Claroscuro, her sixth album as a bandleader. The album’s title, drawn from the Spanish word describing the interplay of light and shadow (chiaroscuro in Italian), perfectly reflects the dynamic contrasts in Cohen’s music.

Ranging from buoyant, dance-like rhythms to darkly lyrical ballads, Claroscuro thrives on live-in-the-studio spontaneity, capturing the raw energy and interplay that define Cohen’s sound. Showcasing her fluency across a global spectrum of styles, the album seamlessly blends the creolized chanson of New Orleans with the timeless swing of an Artie Shaw tune, while also exploring African grooves, Brazilian choro and samba, and rich jazz harmonies.

All About Jazz calls Claroscuro “a masterclass in versatility and emotive storytelling,” a sentiment reinforced by the presence of Cohen’s ace working band—pianist Jason Lindner, bassist Joe Martin, and drummer Daniel Freedman. Adding even more color to the mix are special guests: the charismatic trombonist and vocalist Wycliffe Gordon, dynamic percussionist Gilmar Gomes, and legendary clarinetist Paquito D’Rivera.

With Claroscuro, Cohen continues to push boundaries, proving that the clarinet and saxophone are as versatile and emotionally powerful as ever. Whether navigating the infectious grooves of Brazilian dance music or diving deep into the expressive heart of a ballad, she delivers an album that is both globally expansive and deeply personal—one that, much like its title suggests, finds beauty in contrast.