World Citizen Band

Release: August 25, 2023

The star ‘Antares’, also known as the ‘Heart of the Scorpion’, has long been admired for its fiery, passionate energy. Inspired by this striking celestial body, international collaborative project World Service Band’s sophomore album shares both the star’s name and its bold radiance. A collection of high-energy original contemporary jazz, ‘Antares’ is set to release on KDK Music on August 25th.

Formed in Berlin in 2013 with the goal of uniting cultures through music, WCB is a quintet comprised of Uri Gurvich (New York, from Israel), Ramiro Olaciregui (Berlin, from Argentina), Marcos Merino (Madrid, from Spain), Kenneth Dahl Knudsen (Aalborg, Denmark), and Rodolfo Zuniga (Los Angeles, from Costa Rica).

Reflecting the individuality and musical heritage of each of the band members in every piece, the ensemble is inspired by jazz icons including McCoy Tyner, Brad Melhdau, and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. Containing compositional contributions by all band members, ‘Antares’ is a diverse and personal snapshot of the contemporary jazz scene through the lenses of cities across North and South America, Europe and the Middle East.

From the up-tempo swing feel of ‘Verás Mijín’ to the rock/jazz fusion sound of the title track, the blues-tinged syncopation of ‘CM’s Blues’, Brazilian Samba with ‘Samba Pra Kuki’ and the modern groove-based feel of ‘Lotus’, WCB showcases their versatility and confidence in expressing themselves within a number of contrasting international idioms. 

Featuring jaw-dropping virtuosity, intricately constructed arrangements and diligent, expressive songwriting, the record is a masterclass in contemporary ensemble musicianship. Expansive compositions marked with rhythmic dexterity, inventive harmony and expertly crafted melodies give way to high-energy explorative improvisations, structurally reminiscent of traditional jazz forms but with an undeniably forward-thinking spirit.

The record demonstrates the strong chemistry and unity within WC;. the band’s collective talents and individual personalities shine through as they interpret and breathe life into their compositions. Their interconnectedness allows the music to take on a life of its own, forming a cohesive and captivating musical journey that seamlessly merges different traditions, geographic influences, and individual expressions into a distinct global sound.