Okan Ersan – Studio Album

A Reborn Journey marks a pivotal chapter in Okan Ersan’s artistic evolution — a project where contemporary jazz fusion collides with Eastern colors, cinematic textures, and forward-driving improvisation. Released in 2011, the album played a defining role in expanding Ersan’s international presence and introduced a distinctive compositional voice blending emotional clarity with technical depth.

Core Band

The primary ensemble features some of Istanbul’s most respected musicians:

• Okan Ersan – Guitar, Composition

• Serkan Özyılmaz – Piano & Keyboards

• Eylem Pelit – Bass

• Volkan Öktem – Drums

This core quartet forms the heart of the album, shaping its expressive phrasing, groove, and overall dynamic character.

Horns Section

Adding depth, color, and a powerful brass texture to the arrangements:

• Şenova Ülker – Trumpet

• Levent Altındağ – Saxophones

• Aycan Teztel – Trombone

The horn section expands the album’s sonic landscape, creating a broader, more cinematic fusion aesthetic.

Guest Artists

Several internationally recognized artists enrich the sonic palette with signature performances:

• Ernie Watts – Saxophone

• Misırlı Ahmet – Percussion

• Ercan Irmak – Ney

• Ola Onabule – Vocals

Each guest adds a unique color, widening the album’s texture without compromising its core identity.

Production Notes

• Dave Weckl – Mixing Engineer
  The album was mixed by Dave Weckl, whose precise and dynamic approach brought depth, clarity, and a distinctly modern fusion aesthetic to the project. His mixing shaped the overall sonic identity of A Reborn Journey, emphasizing both the power of the ensemble and the subtlety of the arrangements.
  Weckl noted that the album “has the potential to bring a refreshing and unique voice to the jazz fusion world.”

• George Whitty – Mastering Engineer
  The final mastering was completed by George Whitty, who provided the album with its polished, balanced, and cohesive final sound. His mastering ensured that the mix translated naturally across all playback systems while preserving the emotional and dynamic integrity of the performances.