On 15th January 2025, the Advantage Project unveiled their debut album, Eternal Changing, to a packed audience of jazz enthusiasts in Brussels.
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The performance, part of their “Wednesday Set,” featured the group’s core members: Iryna Dubenko (voice, composer), Yaroslav Tovarianskyi (upright bass, composer), Oleksiy Bogolyubov (piano), Denys Dontsov (guitar), and Bartek Staromiejski (drums). This event marked a significant milestone in the band’s journey, presenting their highly anticipated album to a captivated audience.
A Story of Artistic Vision and Resilience
The Advantage Project, founded in 2018 by Ukrainian musicians Yaroslav Tovarianskyi and Iryna Dubenko, has always been defined by their innovative approach to contemporary jazz. The group’s name, “Advantage,” reflects their collaborative ethos and creative edge. Touring extensively across Ukraine in their early years, the quintet gained a reputation for their original compositions and dynamic performances, solidifying their place in the country’s jazz scene.
Despite their successes, the outbreak of the Russian-Ukrainian war in 2022 forced the band into a two-year hiatus. Members were scattered across the globe, pausing their collective efforts. However, in late 2023, Iryna and Yaroslav relocated to Brussels, rekindling the group’s creative spirit with the support of pianist Oleksiy Bogolyubov, who rejoined from Cologne. This reunion set the stage for the recording of Eternal Changing, an album born from both individual and shared resilience.
Eternal Changing: A Reflection of Transformation
The debut album Eternal Changing is a poignant reflection of the band’s journey, intertwining themes of struggle, renewal, and hope. Recorded in January 2024, the album delves deeply into the band’s personal and collective experiences during their years of separation, crafting a sonic narrative that seamlessly blends exceptional technical artistry with profound emotional resonance. From introspective, soul-stirring ballads to electrifying, high-energy compositions, Eternal Changing stands as a powerful testament to the Advantage Project’s ability to transform adversity into a rich and innovative creative expression.
A Night to Remember in Brussels
The “Wednesday Set” concert saw the group bring Eternal Changing to life, presenting their new material in a performance that showcased both individual artistry and seamless collaboration. Iryna Dubenko’s voice, with its soulful depth, conveyed the emotional weight of the album’s themes, while Yaroslav Tovarianskyi’s upright bass provided a grounding yet innovative backbone to the music.
Oleksiy Bogolyubov’s piano added sophistication and nuance, while Denys Dontsov’s guitar seamlessly shifted between intricate melodies and bold statements. Bartek Staromiejski’s drumming was the driving force behind the group’s energy, tying the ensemble together.
The audience, a vibrant mix of Brussels jazz fans, responded with enthusiasm, their applause echoing through the venue after each piece. Tracks like Wake Up in the Morning and the title piece, Eternal Changing, were particularly well-received, drawing on both the band’s Ukrainian roots and their evolving international sensibility.
Looking to the Future
The Advantage Project’s album debut in Brussels heralds the start of an exciting new chapter for the band. With growing recognition in Europe’s jazz scene, they are poised to expand their reach through a broader tour, bringing their music to fresh audiences across the continent. The universal themes of Eternal Changing—transformation, resilience, and hope—ensure their message resonates far beyond their established fan base, solidifying their appeal to a diverse audience.
For those who attended the debut performance, it was an unforgettable evening, brimming with innovation and heartfelt emotion. For newcomers, the album Eternal Changing provides a compelling entry point to the band’s artistry, offering a vivid glimpse into their creative journey and unique vision.
The Advantage Project’s story is only just beginning, and their music promises to remain a beacon of ingenuity and perseverance. With future performances and releases on the horizon, this exceptional ensemble continues to inspire and captivate audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the modern jazz landscape.
The album Eternal Changing by Advantage Project is now available for streaming and download on multiple platforms. Access it here: Eternal Changing – Advantage Project.
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