SHALOSH – ‘What We Are Made Of’

Key Takeaways

• SHALOSH releases sixth album “What We Are Made Of” March 27, 2026
• Album blends four originals with five genre‑spanning cover tracks
• Trio stays acoustic—piano, bass, drums—no synths or electronics
• Covers reinterpret Muse, Oasis, Aqua, and Israeli classic “Valley Song”
• Critics note fresh voice despite crowded piano‑trio market

Pulse Analysis

SHALOSH, the Israeli piano trio led by pianist Gadi Stern, marks a new chapter with its sixth album, “What We Are Made Of,” released on March 27 2026 through ACT Records. Recorded in September 2025 under the guidance of ACT director Andreas Brandis, the nine‑track set showcases the group’s commitment to an unadorned acoustic palette—piano, double bass and drums—without resorting to synthesizers or electronic textures. This stripped‑down approach harks back to the classic piano‑trio tradition while allowing the musicians to explore nuanced dynamics and melodic interplay that have become their signature.

The album’s repertoire balances four band‑written originals with five covers that reach far beyond the typical jazz canon. Listeners encounter a brooding rendition of the 1934 Israeli folk song “Valley Song,” a muscular take on Muse’s “Hysteria,” a funk‑infused Oasis classic, and a sardonic re‑imagining of Aqua’s “Barbie Girl.” By translating these disparate pop and rock hits into the language of piano‑trio improvisation, SHALOSH not only broadens its own listener base but also illustrates how jazz can serve as a bridge between generations and cultural contexts, turning familiar melodies into fresh, exploratory statements.

From a business perspective, the album’s cross‑genre strategy aligns with streaming platforms’ algorithmic preference for genre‑blending playlists, offering SHALOSH increased visibility among both jazz aficionados and mainstream listeners. ACT’s decision to promote an entirely acoustic record underscores a growing market appetite for authentic, instrument‑focused productions that stand out in a synth‑saturated landscape. As more ensembles adopt similar approaches, the piano‑trio format may experience a resurgence, attracting new talent and sponsorship opportunities while reinforcing its relevance in contemporary music markets.