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Blaer: Blaer
ByBlaer operates on the calmer, more languid end of the jazz spectrum. It's capable of bursts of energy and Nydegger (also a member of Morpheus label-mates AKKU Quintet) isn't shy of composing more aggressive, dramatic, passagesmost notably the first section of "Deep Blue" which features drummer Emanuel Künzi venturing into John Bonham territorybut most of the tunes on this debut release would form an ideal accompaniment to quiet moments of reflection.
"Welcome" sets the styleanchored by Nydegger's repeated two-note phrase, it builds slowly as the remaining four musicians become more dominant. The dreamlike "You Told Me" and "Brian" are reminiscent of UK jazzers Polar Bear, albeit without their electronics. "Without" is an impressive demonstration of restrained and controlled performances. Nydegger's opening piano phrases on "Waiting For Snow"a duet with Nils Fischer's bass clarinet and the gentlest and loveliest of all of these tunesimmediately evoke crisp winter mornings and the eager anticipation of those first scattered flakes.
Blaer was recorded in March 2013, two years before its release. No doubt Blaer has already progressed beyond its first recording sessionsthe prospect of further releases from this exciting quintet is a pleasing one.
Track Listing
Welcome; You Told Me; Brian; Waiting For Snow; Without; Deep Blue; Erased.
Personnel
Blaer
band / ensemble / orchestraMaja Nydegger: piano; Nils Fischer: soprano saxophone, alto saxophone, bass clarinet; Claudio Von Arx: tenor saxophone; Simon Iten: bass; Emanuel Künzi: drums.
Album information
Title: Blaer | Year Released: 2015 | Record Label: Morpheus Records
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About Blaer
Instrument: Band / ensemble / orchestra
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