Kabinet Mirage Band – Fabulario
The Berlin-based Kabinet Mirage Band presents a surprising mix of styles with “Fabulario,” seamlessly blending jazz, folklore, and theatrical elements. Led by Ibon Goitia, a Spanish musician residing in Germany with a rich background in folklore and world music, the band offers a collection of eleven tracks that take listeners through unexpected musical landscapes. From the opening track “Jubiler” to the closing “Paprika Street,” the album unfolds as a kaleidoscope of sounds that merge jazz, rock, world music, and cinematic elements effortlessly.
The opener, “Fugitivo,” immediately sets the tone with a catchy, repetitive theme. The combination of folkloric jazz with Brazilian influences, subtly enriched by strings, elevates the production to a higher level. Musicians from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas fuse their backgrounds into a universal musical language. The result is a sound that feels both familiar and entirely new. In contrast, “Mond” is a gem that would fit perfectly with an old-school big band. Its refined arrangement feels comforting, complemented by sophisticated guitar work as a bridge. Meanwhile, “Il Villaggio” is a tropical surprise, so infectious that one can almost picture hula dancers swaying in grass skirts. It showcases how the band unites various musical worlds through their compositions.
The theatrical character of “Fabulario” shines through its diverse musical colours and flavours. From melancholic klezmer to cheerful bossa nova, cinematic arrangements to fairytale-like music, all infused with a rich layer of pure jazz. This blend gives the album an added dimension of playfulness. The international lineup and the playful elements in the music contribute to a richly textured musical palette. The musicians bring their cultural heritage, which flows like a delicate stream into a captivating interplay of styles and traditions. Perhaps this is what makes “Fabulario” so exciting.
Beautifully structured, “Fabulario” concludes with its absolute highlight, “Paprika Street.” Unfortunately, the shortest track on the album, but its vibrant funky tunes by the Kabinet Mirage Band make up for it. It was a perfect ending to a delightful listening experience. “Fabulario” is an album that reveals new layers with every listen. It demonstrates how jazz can be a starting point for a musical world tour. The theatrical character remains ever-present. It’s a gem for jazz lovers who enjoy a touch of adventure and imagination. Or, as one might say: a musical fable… (7/10) (Kabinet Mirage Band)
