Baldan Bembo, Alberto
The Soul Of "ali" Ben Djamballa
Alberto Baldan Bembo (1938-2017), also known as "Ali" Ben Djamballa, Bedan, Blue Marvin or Shorty Baldan, was a multi-instrumentalist (vibraphonist, organist and pianist). Since 1959 he has been part of the group I Menestrelli del Jazz and in 1963 he joined Bruno De Filippi's group. Appreciated as a sideman, he was for several years pianist and organist in the group that accompanied the Italian singer Mina. He has also spent much of his career as a composer of film soundtracks and published several albums through the SAAR label, among which the soundtrack of 'Codice D'Amore Orientale,' released by SAAR/Joker in 1974. 'The Soul Of "Ali" Ben Djamballa' (1974) is a highly sought after LP by record collectors around the world. Following the creation of the Afro-flavored funk of this period, represented by Fela Kuti (Nigeria) and Osibisa (Ghana), the album features European Library Music grooves, including 'Blue Jeans,' 'Black Coffee,' 'Take Six' and 'Niger.' The record contains a number of solid breaks, noteworthy sampling material and a good dose of rare and funky grooves.