ACT Music + Vision GmbH & Co. KG · Rotterdam · 13 March 2026 · ★★★★½
Groove. Related. Transitions
LISTEN
Peter Somuah’s Walking Distance captures your jazz emotions. It keeps you locked in from the first note. This isn’t the ordinary monotony, background jazz—the kind that drifts through a room without leaving a mark. This is calculated musicianship with clear hints of funk and soul. The tapestry here is neither faded nor jaded—and not complicated.
The subtle strings on “300 Meters” put you at ease. The trumpet’s flavor glides like a butterfly’s flight. Throughout the album, you can feel the way Somuah’s trumpet bobs and weaves through the music. No pressure applied—just a smooth ride. A man on a mission. The subtle groove of the bass on “Around the Corner” walks in and commands attention. Keeps you focused, head nodding without thinking. “A Turn” takes you somewhere unknown. The vibes, the organ, the arrangement—all on point, all delivering. Smooth as cognac! “Voyage” goes in and out with no alarm, up and down like a heartbeat. Mr. Somuah’s music stays true to his core and sounds remarkable doing it. Somehow this album feels related to every form of jazz you love. You can’t let it go.
The artful transitions are a welcome gift to how jazz is made today. Nothing hidden—just expressions untold. This is what you’ve been waiting for but didn’t know existed. To us, Walking Distance represents a deep connection: between artist and instrument, between artist and listener. The simplicity—and the beauty—of this musicianship makes Peter Somuah a fundamental jazz agent.
Personnel: Peter Somuah trumpet, flugelhorn; Anton de Bruin rhodes, organ, keys; Jens Meijer drums; Marijn van de Ven bass; Danny Rombout percussion; Heleen Vellekoop flute; Nia Ralinova cello
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