Oded Tzur

Described by Downbeat Magazine as “A Volcano on the Ocean Floor“, Oded Tzur’s music is a microcosm in which the blues, Indian ragas, synagogue prayers and classical music form an unmistakable style of storytelling. Based in New York City, the Israeli-born saxophonist, composer and bandleader explores fundamental connections between ancient and modern musical traditions, culminating in a band that’s been dubbed “The Coltrane Quartet of the 21st Century“.

An ECM Records artist, Tzur is set apart by his use and development of microtonality on the saxophone. First presented at Trinity College Of Music, London, and more recently at the Juilliard School in New York, this decade long project is the result of Tzur’s studies with India’s grandmaster of the Bansuri: Hariprasad Chaurasia. The way in which the Indian flute moves seamlessly from one pitch to another inspired Tzur to go beyond what was deemed possible on his instrument.

Tzur is right. Ragas are universal – Jazz Times (US)

Tzur has shared his singular sound on some of the best stages in the world, including Cafe de la Danse (Paris), Jazz Standard (NYC) and Bimuis (Amsterdam). In search of the hidden thread, not only between the notes of the saxophone, but also between the genres that have defined him, Tzur set out to crystalize his concept in the form of a love letter. Isabela, his fourth album as a leader, will be released in May 2022.