Matthieu Clement: RUMA

Mathieu Clement, born in 2001 in Luxembourg, is a dynamic 24-year-old drummer and composer (with a mature talent that belies his age) now based in Cologne, Germany. He began playing the drums and vibraphone at the age of seven, studied at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz, and was part of the JugendJazzOrchester NRW. Clement's discography includes his debut Coming Home" (Jazz Thing Next Generation, 2022), and the trio album Fume, (Klaeng, 2024).

Ruma is a spirited septet affair, channeling straight-ahead hard bop with robust brass, tight rhythms and original compositions that blend tradition and modernity. Across 12 tracks and spanning 57 minutes, the program emphasizes family themes, as evident in titles like "Family Tree" and "Sisterhood." And the album's big band flair shines through precise arrangements, evoking the 1950s-'60s era while feeling fresh and energetic.

Spotlight on "Sisterhood" (3:48), a standout that features one of Clement's younger sisters on wordless vocals, harmonizing with the horn section and adding a personal, emotive layer. It opens with building harmonious brass swells, a cheery theme and a soulful melody that intertwines with trumpeter Jakob Bänsch's radiant solos. The mid-tempo groove allows for playful improvisation, highlighting the septet's cohesion. Subtle piano accents provide introspection, tying into the familial motif. "Sisterhood" captures Ruma's essence: joyful, accessible and sophisticated. Hence, Clement's music shines, cementing his place as an artist to watch.