BEN MIZRACH: PROJECTS

Orbiting Lovers and Contraband is a continually evolving musical experience exploring Black art as resistance. Originally titled ALMANAC, the work premiered as a stage musical in Somerville, MA in 2021. Inspired by the work of American composer T.J. Anderson, ALMANAC was an exploration of profound questions at the core of the Black American artist's journey: "What is the true cost of cultural and artistic agency?" and "How can we define 'Black Art'?"

The most recent and reimagined version of the project unfolds through the experiences of three artists, weaving together a vibrant, electrifying, and eclectic musical mosaic that traverses the realms of hip-hop, soul, R&B, folk, and Black American improvised music. It serves as an opportunity to dissect and reflect upon the complex tapestry of our shared past, while simultaneously envisioning a reimagined future. It was recorded live in Studio F at the REACH at Kennedy Center on December 8th, 2023, and can be watched in full here.

Lead by BEN MIZRACH, our collective offers performances that originate from the music landscape of ALMANAC / ORBITING LOVERS fit for jazz clubs and smaller performance venues in New York City and across the country.

These are samples from our performance.

Additional recordings and photos available on request.