U.S. Release 01-06-12
Jazz minimalism as a musical frame of reference may be best described as ECM lite for those familiar with the label. For those not familiar with ECM, think constant harmony, steady pulse and the zen like less is more to create a spacious ambiance of creativity and in this case presented from a gifted quintet from Germany.
Opening with "Die Stadt" there is an immediate connection to a more ensemble driven sound despite the improvisational skills of saxophonist Jens Bockamp. A constant forward motion, a specific musical direction while approaching the avant garde which merely adds more depth to this colorful quintet. Rolling directly into the deeply rich and moody "Verzucken" there is a spatial ambiguity that is carefully filled with subtly and a melancholy that is as thought provoking as it is expressive. This debut from guitarist Florian Fleischer carefully and methodically emphasizes the group concept where all participants are given an equal musical footing from which to work.
Minimal rehearsal was put into the recording of this work as to allow a more spontaneous free flow of improvisation and musical ideas to push on the fly. Given the technical proficiency of this quintet, less is more minimalism is a wondrous vehicle of expression in their hands. "Apple Tree" may demonstrate Fleischer's keen sense of melody and harmonic progression better than any tune on this release. Joe Pass meets Kenny Burrell. An open ended warmth and slightly more accessible approach while still holding true to form in terms of sonic exploration. Fleischer has chops galore and his strong lyrical playing drives this tune and ensemble into some creative territory similar artists seem to be side stepping.
Warm, rich and open this is a release that will get 2012 started in style. A unique ensemble approach avoiding the self indulgent and emphasizing the compositions. A gem!
Tracks: Die Stoudt; Verzucken; Erkennen; Bergreifen; Klarheit; Apple Tree; Silly Season; Die Grobe Leere; Jaolezie Nr. 1.
Personnel: Florian Fleischer: guitar; Jens Backamp: saxophone; Philipp Ruttgers: piano, synth; Oliver Lutz: double bass; Etienne Nillesen: drums.
