Click here to listen to “Jean-Jacques Rojer plays Jacobo Palm”. Released in February of 2017.

Credits:

Jean-Jacques Rojer - arrangements, guitars, cuatro and small percussion. Kris Berry - vocals. Robert Rojer and Randal Corsen - piano. Eric Calmes - bass. Pernell Saturnino - percussion. Mariana Hutchinson Siemers - 1st and 2nd violins. Mara Tieles Cutié - viola. Recorded, mixed and mastered by Oscar Bor. Editing by Jean-Jacques Rojer. Artwork by Océane Combeau. Produced by Henry van der Kwast and Gregory Elias.

In an homage to his great grandfather, the late Jacobo Palm, guitarist Jean-Jacques Rojer embarks on a musical journey through time with his album, aptly titled "Jean-Jacques Rojer plays Jacobo Palm." This extraordinary project breathes new life into the captivating compositions of Jacobo Palm, infusing them with contemporary arrangements, the enchanting harmonies of vocals and strings, and the talents of Curaçao's finest musicians.

The roots of this musical endeavor run deep within the vibrant neighborhood of Otrabanda, nestled on the idyllic island of Curaçao. It was here that Jacobo Palm's compositions flourished, capturing the essence of Curaçao at the turn of the century. The album serves as a tribute to the rich musical heritage born in this very neighborhood, a testament to the enduring power of its rhythms and melodies.

Accompanying Jean-Jacques Rojer on this venture is Robert Rojer, Jacobo Palm's grandson and Jean-Jacques' father, who showcases his prodigious talent on the piano. The collaboration of father and son creates an unmistakable familial bond that permeates every note, as if generations of musicianship unite to tell a profound story.

With meticulous care and reverence, the music of Jacobo Palm is reinvented through thoughtful re-arrangements, breathing new dimensions into the repertoire. The album resonates with the soulful interpretations of Curaçao's best artists, including the virtuosic pianist Randal Corsen and the vocals of Kris Berry. Their contributions add layers of depth and emotion, complementing Jean-Jacques Rojer's masterful arrangements and guitar work.

At the heart of this musical tapestry lies the Curaçao Waltz and Danza, two enchanting rhythms that pervaded the air of Otrabanda during the early 20th century. These quintessentially Caribbean genres form the backbone of the album andthrough their infectious beats, the album captures the spirit of a bygone era, bringing to life the vibrant energy that defined Otrabanda.

"Jean-Jacques Rojer plays Jacobo Palm" stands as a testament to the enduring power of music and the legacy of a great composer. It is a celebration of heritage, a journey through time, and a heartfelt tribute to the creativity that emerged from the streets of Otrabanda. With its compelling arrangements and the collective talent of its extraordinary musicians, this album is destined to captivate audiences, transporting them to a world where the zeitgeist of the past intertwine with the melodies of the present.