Street Date 01/27/12
For a great many people jazz and especially a piano trio from Europe sounds "different" and the reasons can normally vary from country of origin and their specific cultural identity and how this transfers to the more familiar western improvised form and function of what we traditionally have come to expect in the United States.
Not bad. "Different."
Different is good, especially when it comes to TriOzean! Jazz detente. East meets west with a fusion of jazz, classic, rock and world music elements into a unique yet incredibly powerful voice given the traditional language of the jazz piano trio. A personal release of sorts with tunes that draw inspiration from life experiences, touring and the enjoyment of creating. Perhaps the myriad of personal influences accounts for the deep rich colors with which this eclectic ensemble paints their sonic canvas.
"Tango Incognito" opens the release with as much style and flair as one would expect any tune containing the word tango! The translation here is an incredible cultural nuance yet oddly quirky. The virtuoso playing of pianist Olga Nowikowa is punctuated by the formidable rhythm section of Lars Fodisch on double bass and Krishan Zeigner on drums. "Zentrifuge" is controlled sonic fury at its peak. The ensemble displays a keen sense of melody and lyrical progression all while pushing an improvisational envelope close to the edge of the table without the envelope ever going over the edge. "Nocturne en Chocolat" is where classical and new age merge with tremendous jazz sensibilities for a stunning harmonic progression. The ebb and flow with "Nocturne en Chocolat" is simply indicative of what is ahead including brilliant saxophone work from Michal Skulski. The addition of Skulski adds additional depth and character to a release that easily establishes its firm sonic foundation about 30 second into the first tune.
Fancy colors. Three independent voice working as one harmonious train of musical thought. Deep, rich and evocative, "Nocturne" is a prime example of the wondrous possibilities when labels, genres and preconceived ideas are cast aside in favor of but one thing -
Music.
Tracks: Tango Incognito; Zentrifuge; Nocturne en Chocolat; Home; Der Kleine Muck; Theresa's Dance; Birdlike; Vasteras; Message.
Personnel: Olga Nowikowa: piano; Lars Fodisch: double bass; Krishan Zeigner: drums.
Guest: Michal Skulski: saxophone
A taste of TriOzean from a 2009 performance via You Tube.
