Band: Joan Torres’s All Is Fused; Musicians: Jonathan Suazo: Alto Sax; Gabriel Vicéns: Guitar; Sergio González: Guitar; Emanuel Rivera: Piano and keyboards; Fernando García: Drums and percussion; and Torres: Bass

Album: ‘Embrace Form;’ Released: January 20, 2023; Producer: Torres

Reaching far beyond simple tones to weave together a true sonic narrative on an LP through a collection of solely instrumental songs is a powerful testament to a band’s true connection. The members of the San Francisco-based jazz group, Joan Torres’s All Is Fused, is proving the ease of their bond in the studio with their latest album, ‘Embrace Form.’

The nine-track modern jazz fusion record proves the six-member band, which is led by bassist-composer Joan Torres, blends experimental instrumental music with popular beats and rhythms. The unique tunes not only highlight the musicians’ expressive style, but also expand the diversity of their repertoire.

‘Embrace Form,’ which takes inspiration from such jazz fusion and experimental groups as Return to Forever and Now vs Now, is a seminal project for Joan Torres’s All Is Fused in several ways. Not only is the LP a 10th anniversary release celebrating the band’s dedication to each other and their craft, the group was also awarded a grant from the San Francisco Arts Commission to make the project.

The concept album, which thrives on the structure that Torres and his ensemble explored, opens with the ambient song, ‘Cotati Reset.’ The track emphasizes Torres’ lush, orchestral style when composing, as it grows into a fluid, intricate symphony. Blending an overarching mellow brass, subtle percussion and soft guitar melodies, the tune creates a peacefully captivating atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the LP.

The initial entry on ‘Embrace Form’ then transitions into its Latin-tinged sophomore song, ‘Unexpectations.’ Opening with percussive rhythms, the track then delves into a lively, funk-infused lounge melody with spirited jazzy guitar riffs and bright brass accents. The tune closes with a free-flowing piano that showcases the project’s dynamic tonal rhythm.

One of the most tantalizing entries on Joan Torres’s All Is Fused’s latest record is its fifth song, ‘No Voices Lost.’ The track seamlessly blends experimental brass with spirited guitar melodies and lively piano rhythms.

Another standout tune on ‘Embrace Form’ is its final entry, ‘Crystalline,’ which experiments with various musical forms, from verse-chorus to vamps and canons. The musical elements are a true standout as they’re often infused with improvisational elements and subdued rhythms. This distinct approach redefines the traditional forms of jazz fusion.

‘Embrace Form’ proves to be one of Joan Torres’s All Is Fused’s most compelling albums, as it highlights their unique and modern take on jazz fusion in a unique and accessible way. The LP, which is a celebration of the band’s 10th anniversary, represents both the culmination of the musicians’ history together, as well as the beginning of their next chapter, which chronicles them continuing to push boundaries.

The record proves that Torres and his bandmates effortlessly work together to blend experimental instrumental music with popular beats and rhythms. The unique songs on ‘Embrace Form’ not only highlight the musicians’ expressive style, but also expand the diversity of their repertoire, and celebrate their dedication to each other and their craft.

For more information on Joan Torres’s All Is Fused, visit their official website, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Bandcamp, SoundCloud and YouTube pages.