Antonio Lizana Trio

Enchanting lip service to flamenco and jazz.

Antonio Lizana refers to himself as a saxophonist, singer, and creator. In other words: an artist. But perhaps “devil’s artist” says it even better. The multitalented musician from Cádiz started playing saxophone when he was ten and studied jazz at the conservatory. He was raised on flamenco. Singing and playing the saxophone is an unusual combination, especially in jazz and flamenco. Witnessing one of his concerts, it’s hard not to hang on Lizana’s lips. Because everything that comes from them is equally enchanting and penetrating. He also sounds tormented, flamenco being akin to the blues. And Lizana’s aching soul reaches depths you might not expect from a man his age (36). But for many great artists that comes with the territory.

What makes his music extra fascinating, is the way in which he reconciles his two true loves, flamenco and jazz. Using his saxophone he merges them together almost seamlessly. When Lizana sings, he is pure flamenco – old school even: uncut emotion without frills. And he’s no different the moment he puts his lips on the sax, yet barely a minute later his sound will have shifted ever so slightly. Fascinating!

Formation

Antonio Lizana - Alto saxophone, vocals
José Manuel León - flamenco guitar
Ruven Ruppik - percussion