Alex Hendriksen, Fabian Gisler, Paul Amereller: Lotus Blossom

The jazz trio of Alex Hendriksen on tenor saxophone, Fabian Gisler on bass, and Paul Amereller on drums has been making waves in the European jazz scene for several years, being known for their dynamic live performances and innovative interpretations of jazz standards. With their 2024 release, Lotus Blossom, this trio from Switzerland has crafted a delightful album which highlights their exceptional synergy and individual virtuosity. Hendriksen's saxophone, Gisler's bass, and Amereller's drums weave a tapestry of sound as delicate as a lotus petal, and occasionally as powerful as a steam roller.

The album opens with the David Mann and Bob Hilliard standard "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning," in which Amereller fills the spaces with aplomb, lightly tapping out a pulse with a few breakouts. Hendriksen adds soul to the primary theme, often with a light touch and sultry lines. On Tadd Dameron's classic "Soultrane," the saxophonist digs deep, emphasizing the melody with warmth and finesse as if dancing on water, while the rhythm section pushes and prods along the way. Gisler's lyrical walking bass solo shines during the trio's mid-tempo swing pulse, as the drummer ups the ante with polyrhythmic solos.

On Billy Strayhorn's, "Lotus Blossom," Hendriksen's saxophone floats effortlessly over Gisler's deep, resonant bass lines and Amereller's frisky swing groove amid the musicians' respective contrasts and counter-maneuvers. Hendriksen's saxophone is a smooth operator here, often whispering sweet nothings into the night, as Gisler's bass and Amereller's drums provide a solid yet fluid foundation, creating an atmosphere which is captivating and slightly mischievous.

The trio also takes adventurous routes dispersed throughout the program, offering a bustling metropolis of sound, full of unexpected turns and vibrant energy. Certain tracks provide a soothing contrast with simple, yet evocative, dialogues carried beautifully by Hendriksen's warm saxophone tone. The gently swaying rhythm and subtle harmonic shifts create a sense of ease and comfort, making it perfect for a lazy afternoon or a quiet evening. It is like a musical hammock gently rocking the listener into relaxation.

Lotus Blossom is a testament to the trio's skills as both performers and composers, blending technical precision with emotional depth. Each track invites the listener to explore a rich landscape of sound, making it a compelling listen from start to finish. Whether the listener is a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, the album captivates and inspires, proving that it is a blooming example of modern jazz done correctly.

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