Do'A Higher Grounds CD

Do'a is a vocalist, pianist, guitarist, composer and mathematician lauded for her emotional integrity and depth of musical expression, both original and arranged. Now, following her artist-in-residency at The Music Center at Strathmore, she steps forth to record her debut album: higher grounds. A tribute to the interconnected nature of the human spirit, the record draws on Do'a's Albanian upbringing, combining elements of Albanian folk music with jazz, samba and Latin American rhythmic traditions to create a holistic expression of the artist's identity and passions. The overall vivacity and energy of this record despite it's long-distance collaborative nature is a testament both to Do'a's masterful touch as a bandleader, and to the musicianship of the personnel on this album. In addition to Do'a herself on vocals, guitar, and piano,ßhigher groundßfeatures an eclectic lineup ofßShai Maestro (piano), Nando Michelin (piano), Harold L?pez-Nussa (piano), Mayquel Gonzalez (trumpet), Julio Cesar Gonzalez (bass), Ruy Adrian L?pez-Nussa (percussion), and Shango Dely (percussion). In addition to the performance contributions, these remote recordings were pieced together in Albania byßsound engineer Klodian Qafoku. Above all else, Do'a describes the relationship with the musicians on this record as "flexible, creative, and easy to work with," and praises their ability to create interactive, genuine music despite the lack of an in-person, synchronized performance.

1. Flor de Lis 2. Alfonsina y El Mar 3. Lßmpara 4. I Fall in Love Too Easily 5. Unidad 6. Pranvera 7. Krijim (Live Session)