Norbert Stein: Pata Kandinsky

Norbert Stein, a luminary of the European jazz scene, is celebrated for his ingenious compositions and distinctive approach to the genre. Central to Stein's musical philosophy is his "Pata" ideology, which draws from the surreal and abstract, blending whimsical, unorthodox elements with the essence of traditional jazz. As a saxophonist and composer based in Germany, Stein consistently pushes the boundaries of jazz through this unique fusion, establishing himself as a revered and influential artist in the global jazz community.

Pata Kandisky, Stein's latest offering, is a testament to his boundless creativity and eagerness to explore new musical landscapes. Titled as a tribute to the Russian abstract artist Wassily Kandinsky, the album mirrors the painter's innovative spirit with Stein's cunning, vibrant and dynamic compositions, encapsulated in the "Suite in Six Movements."

From the opening track, "Seven Brushstrokes, Dark and Light Steps," the ensemble starts with a lively free-form dialogue, followed by Stein's spirited tenor sax soloing. The piece ebbs and flows with fluttering and pumping horns, accompanied by Michael Heupel's intricate flute parts and Joker Nies' quirky EFX, all amidst gravitating horns. Stein seamlessly blends intricate melodies with complex rhythms, his compositions conveying a broad spectrum of emotions.

"Dark Wood, Light Wood, Gold Becomes Silver" features growling saxophones and interwoven dialogues, painting an abstract portrait reminiscent of Kandinsky's brush strokes and colorful canvases. "Measuring The Canvas, Textures and Unfolding" highlights Uwe Oberg's playful piano solo, which unfolds and provides the horn players with a re-entry point, juxtaposed with undulating grooves and stately unison choruses during the closeout. "The Simple Song and The Infernal Sound," is an off-kilter ballad with blaring horns and drummer Jörg Fischer's driving patterns, infused by the horn section's hard-edged melody, leading to intense improv sequences.

A hallmark of this album is its rich exploration of texture and form. Stein's compositions are sophisticated and multifaceted, inviting listeners to discover new layers and details with each spin. Each track is a sonic adventure, packed with unexpected twists and delightful surprises, making the album a true auditory delight. With Pata Kandisky, Stein once again proves that the canvas becomes limitless in the world of jazz.