Mathias Ruppnig: FOAM (feat. Kurt Rosenwinkel)

There is a long tradition of excellent European jazz composers, and a more recent addition to that list is Austrian drummer and composer Mathias Ruppnig. Ruppnig has a strong academic background in drumming and composing, and this is evident in the sophistication of the compositions and arrangements. But the presence of American guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel adds a bit of edge to proceedings, contrasting nicely with the very fine French pianist Tony Tixier.

FOAM has the feel of a '70s ECM album. The tracks are medium-paced, with the exception of the straight-ahead "Exhale." Melodic alto and tenor arrangements feature heavily, as on the opening number "Petrology Kid," which sets the tone nicely for what is to come. This band is comprised of standout musicians who clearly enjoy what they are doing and enjoy interacting with each other. On one of the standout tracks, "Ivy," Ruppnig adds Australian vocalist  Matilda Abraham, who also contributes the lyrics. The track has a mysterious vibe and is greatly enhanced by Abraham's sensuous voice, which sits somewhere between Flora Purim  and Sade. A whole album of this would be a fine thing.

Another highlight of the album is "Father and Sons." A slow contemplative tune featuring beautiful solos on piano and guitar from Tixier and Rosenwinkel. As with most European jazz works, there is a different feel to the compositions, with subtle inflections of classical music and folk traditions. The feeling is more atmospheric and introspective than a typical offering from across the Atlantic. Ruppnig has forsaken previous record labels to self-release this album. It is well worth seeking out.

Mathias Ruppnig · Fathers and Sons (feat. Kurt Rosenwinkel, Musina Ebobisse, Joander Cruz, Tony Tixier & Lorenz Heigenhuber)