Zhivko Vasilev Quintet is a project that was created in 2020. Some of the most prominent musicians in Bulgaria and in Europe gatherеd and recordеd the original music of Zhivko Vasilev. Later, in 2021, this album was released under the name “Places“. Zhivko Vasilev’s music blends ancient traditions of the Balkans with classical and modern, jazz arrangements and improvisation.
Lineup:
Zhivko Vasilev – kaval
Teodor Petkov – Piano
Mihail Ivanov – Bass
Borislav Petrov – Drums
Ana Rodriguez – Cello
Reviews in the Press
The album “Places” is in the TOP 10 list for the second quarter of 2021, according to the choice of the panelist of “Balkan Chart”
All About Jazz – published this about “Places” – “Wherever Vasilev’s pieces go on the genre map, propulsive energy churns throughout this session. It’s a wild ride that somehow packs an entire whirlwind global tour into just one thrilling hour.” – LINK
Jazz.sk says this about the album: “The enchanting soundscapes makes it one of the most interesting instrumental discoveries of the year.” LINK
Jazz in Europe – “Vasilev’s music takes the listener on a journey through the Balkans, the Orient and then to the American jazz that tastefully blends with the classical traditions in Europe.” LINK
Mixedworldmusic.com – “The Bulgarian kaval player and pianist Zhivko Vasilev builds a credible bridge between tradition and jazz” LINK
Tech Rider: LINK