by Joe Lang

SASHA’S BLOC has an interesting origin. Russian-born founder Alexander Gershman is a renowned Urologic Surgeon who also happens to be a bass player with a passion for music. He is particularly inspired by the jazz of the 1920s and 1930s. Melancholy is a nine-tune collection of original songs by Sashman and vocalist Carina Cooper, also from Russia, written in the style of the music that Gershman admires. The group is comprised of first-rate Los Angeles area musicians. The songs are fun, and nicely replicate the earlier sounds. This is a different take on swing. It is fresh and appealing. The band has been enjoying success in Southern California, and this disc makes the listener understand why this is the case. (www.cdbaby.com)