Miri Ben-Ari Albums (3)
'The Hip-Hop Violinist'
Release Date 8/23/2005
Tracks 15
Label Universal
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What The Critics Say
Besides the fact that she's just so gosh darn beautiful, the hip-hop community took to Miri Ben-Ari because of her spirited playing that perfectly fit songs like Twista's "Overnight Celebrity," and in many ways it made them. Right from the title, The Hip-Hop Violinist relies too much on the gimmick of such a thing, and in the end comes off less satisfying than her jazz releases, which had more inspired tiles like Sahara and Temple of Beautiful instead of Female Israeli Jazz Violinist. Half of her guests can't help but dwell on her name, her beauty, and her quirky role in hip-hop, repeatedly giving props to her instead of offering anything substantial. Good news is Lil' Mo will have none of it, instead delivering the uplifting "Hold Your Head Up High" with a passion to which Miri's winding violin responds with spirit. "Chillin' in the Key of E" is intriguing Vivaldi meets Wes Montgomery meets hanging out downtown, and the Southern party anthem "4 Flat Tires" with Baby, Lil Wayne, and Six Shot makes up for a lot of filler. Hearing Doug E. Fresh's human beatbox accompany Ben-Ari's interpretive take on "Star Spangled Banner" is exciting and neither John Legend nor Kanye West damage their lofty status, but insights into Ben-Ari the artist are just too rare. Consider it a mixtape with Ben-Ari appearances and it's more hit than miss, but as thrilling and as fun as the album can be, you can't help but wish the unique voice on her earlier recordings was more center stage. ~ David Jeffries, All Music Guide
'The Temple of Beautiful'
Release Date 11/4/2003
Tracks 10
Label Half Note
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What The Critics Say
Israeli jazz violinist Miri Ben-Ari's second CD as a leader is a powerful live date recorded at the Blue Note in New York City. Accompanied by a powerful rhythm section consisting of pianist David Kikoski, bassist Matthew Parrish, and drummer Steve Hass, Ben-Ari is an original on the instrument, displaying the fire of Stuff Smith, the aggressive bop technique of Jean-Luc Ponty in his early years, and the ability to swing like Stephane Grappelli. "Caravan" may have been recorded countless times by others, but the youthful Ben-Ari takes this exotic standard in a new direction. Guest guitarist Ron Afiff is added for a turbocharged romp through Sonny Rollins' "Pent Up House" (a favorite of Grappelli), while her passionate interpretation of Herbie Hancock's modal masterpiece "Maiden Voyage" will also turn heads. Her buoyant treatment of "I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart" showcases Kikoski with a series of brief breaks by Hass. Her enticing originals include the funky "The Temple of Beautiful," the Latin-flavored blues "Mother Shipton," and the soulful "Give Me Some." Highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
An intriguing violinist with strong technique and a highly expressive style, Miri Ben-Ari is a strong improviser whose playing often hints at Eastern and Indian music. On the evidence of her debut, she already ranks close to Regina Carter. Performing a set of her originals plus "Dream" and "Rejoice" (the latter by her keyboardist), Ben-Ari is heard at her best on a diverse set which includes a few lightly funky numbers, some atmospheric pieces, and a heartfelt version of "Dream." Easily recommended and an important first step for the promising violinist. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
