Equilibrium is the ECM debut of a German/Canadian/Spanish trio, which through frequent touring has grown into a remarkably tight and stylistically unique unit in recent years. Fuelled by the tension created through the contrasting styles of pianist Benedikt Jahnel (whose approach is characterised by an unusual interest in rhythmic subdivisions) and drummer Howard (who, in Jahnels words, “treats and perceives rhythmic phrases as melodical lines without fixed micro units”), and with bass player Antonio Miguel often the musical mediator, the group’s sound draws subtly from classical influences as well as contemporary concepts of groove. Leader Jahnel, also known as a member of Cyminology, has sharpened his profile playing with the Metropol Orchestra, Phil Woods, Johannes Enders, Charlie Mariano, Wolfgang Muthspiel, Dave Liebman and John Abercrombie. Produced by Manfred Eicher at Radio Televisione Svizzera in Lugano the seven tracks on “Equilibrium”, all Jahnel originals/compositions, strike a unique and delicate balance between composed parts and improvisation or group improvisation.
Recorded July 2011. |