Zz Quartet - Beyond The Lines [CD]

After their extraordinary 2010 debut album, 'The Way We Talk', guitarist Ratko Zjaca and accordionist Simone Zanchini return to the studio to write another chapter in the history of cross-genre music. Their second In & Out CD, 'Beyond The Lines', is another engaging mix of jazz, folk and world music and also features fellow members of the ZZ quartet, bassist Martin Gjakonovski and renowned American drummer Adam Nussbaum. Born in Croatia, Ratko Zjaca went on to study at the New York University School of Music. It was this move to the United States that led to him performing with the likes of Randy Brecker, John Patitucci and Steve Gadd - who all performed on his earlier 'Continental Talk' album. Simone Zanchini is considered one of the most innovative accordion players in Europe and his highly personal take on improvisation involves blending acoustic and electronic sound in a unique way. This open approach to music making is mirrored by the whole group in the eleven tracks that make up this distinctive album. Personnel: Ratko Zjaca (electric and acoustic guitar), Simone Zanchini (accordion, live electronics), Martin Gjakonovski (acoustic bass), Adam Nussbaum (drums)