Avashai Cohen - Arvoles [Razdaz Recordz] The Israeli-born bass giant returns in a quintet setting with pianist Elchin Shirinov, drummer Noam David, trombonist Björn Samuelsson, and flautist Anders Hagberg for an inspiring set of originals strong in melody and rhythmic invention. “Simonero” sets the course with a falling bass line that sets up striking ensemble counterpoint. The title track is rife with baroque ornamentation between bass and piano, while “Childhood (for Carmel)” seems descended from a Romantic-era church. “Face Me” dances on angular accents within its 3/4 meter and boasts Cohen’s virtuous bowed solo. Elsewhere, “Elchinov” rides an odd-time piano montuno, huge chordal leaps, and a killer groove solo. The swirling harmonies of “Nostalgia” evoke many a musical mood and age. And “New York ’90s” summons Cohen’s global breakout period. All told, Arvoles is a candidate for bass album of the year. —Chris Jisi Invisiblemann