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Finn Wiest Quintet: Aurora
In a small town in southern Germany, Finn Wiest heard her call and picked up the drumsticks at a young age. He worked his way to the Conservatory of Cologne, winning competitions and awards. New York City beckoned, where, in 2024, he earned a Master's degree from the City College of New York while also honing his skills as a busy sideman. Aurora (Self Produced, 2025) is the first release of his quintet, and it is a solid effort. Each member contributed one of the five compositions, an egalitarian approach yielding noteworthy variety. The tight, interwoven performances and group sound unite the five pieces. "Aurora" is a good introduction to the band's interplay and Wiest's creative percussion, although all tracks merit repeat listenings.
The band consists of Julius van Rhee (alto sax), Victor Fox (tenor sax), Leandro Irarragorri (piano), and Calvin Lennig (bass), and they gel nicely as a quintet. Although Wiest takes no solos on this recording, his thoughtful, musical playing shines through. Perhaps their next release will showcase his improvisational chops.
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