Anat Cohen

Notes from the Village

Released: September 2008

With Notes from the Village, Anat Cohen once again redefines the scope of the modern jazz clarinet, infusing her music with a boundless sense of adventure and stylistic range. Through all of her work as a bandleader, there’s hardly a speck of filler—only a wealth of ideas, bold improvisations, and a fearless desire to push her instrument beyond traditional swing.

AllMusic praises Cohen’s approach, noting that “in the liner notes, Ira Gitler deems her as transcendent and formidable, an apt description for the best modern jazz clarinetist in current-day jazz, and perfectly reflective of this excellent recording.” Indeed, Notes from the Village is a thrilling display of Cohen’s artistry, capturing the fire of her live performances while showcasing her versatility as both an interpreter and composer.

Leading her powerhouse New York quartet—featuring pianist Jason Lindner, bassist Omer Avital, and drummer Daniel Freedman—Cohen explores an eclectic repertoire that includes fresh originals alongside vibrant reimaginings of tunes by Fats Waller, John Coltrane, Sam Cooke, and Ernesto Lecuona. From the soulful depth of a Cooke classic to the exploratory spirit of Coltrane, she navigates each piece with both technical brilliance and raw emotional intensity.

Building on the success of her acclaimed 2007 releases Noir and Poetica, this album cements Cohen’s reputation as one of the most compelling voices in jazz today. With Notes from the Village, she delivers a recording that is as exhilarating as it is soulful—an album that swings, soars, and speaks to the enduring power of jazz as a living, evolving art form.