‘Dream Keeper’ is a high-class and
innovative set of originals that marks the first major international
release from Portuguese guitarist and composer Andre Fernandes.
Since 2002 Lisbon-born Fernandes has
generated a wave of glowing reviews for appearances with some of the
finest international musicians. As a beacon of inspirational energy and
determined spirit in his native Portugal, Fernandes has been described
by Portuguese music critic, Rui Eduardo Paes, as ‘one
of the most important Portuguese jazz musicians today, with credits
that largely surpass the field of jazz and a continuous ability to
surprise us’.
‘Dream Keeper’ is a career defining
album that draws together Andre’s strengths as composer, player and
bandleader, with the help of a stellar cast of musicians, into one
coherent and well-executed album. ‘Dream Keeper’ confirms Andre’s
promise and offers him an opportunity to approach a global audience and
ignite a glowing international career.
Born in Lisbon in 1976, Andre
Fernandes is a natural leader with an entrepreneurial spirit. In 2002,
he formed T.O.A.P. (Tone of A Pitch), his own imprint, as a way to take
control of his own destiny and as a vehicle for his talented cohorts.
Driven by the desire to collaborate and an empathy and respect for his
band mates, Andre has plenty to give. Compositionally, the music is bold
with a determined spirit drawing on a wide array of influences and
colours. As a player, Andre has a commanding sound with inventive use of
pedals, tones and colour. As a bandleader, he leaves space for others
to shine and is able to bring the best performances from his musicians.
There’s obvious mutual respect and friendship on offer and the music is
the better for it.
If ‘Dream Keeper’ is a sign of what is
to come for this young, incredibly talented guitarist, then the next few
years look very exciting.
“I always look forward to hearing
what Andre is doing. He’s a great guitarist and composer. I have also
had the pleasure of playing with Andre many times and that has always
been a blast. MOTOR continues his fine musical journey” DAVID BINNEY
“What great music!! Beautiful and imaginative. It could be no less coming from some of my favorite musicians.” PERICO SAMBEAT
1. Chifre
2. Rabbit Hole
3. Snakes and Lizards
4. Anti Hero
5. Jack
6. Abarat
7. Dream Keeper
ANDRE FERNANDES guitar
PERICO SAMBEAT alto and soprano saxophone, flute
ALEXI TUOMARILA piano
DEMIAN CABAUD bass
IAGO FERNANDEZ drums
MARCELO ARAUJO percussion on 2 and 6
PAULO GASPAR bass Clarinet on 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6
DESIDERIO LAZARO tenor Saxophone on 2 and 6
GONCALO MARQUES trumpet and flugelhorn on 2 and 6