Musical Performances at Haus der Berliner Festspiele and Quasimodo Club
November 1, 2024
Haus der Berliner Festspiele
Goran Kajfeš Tropiques
Goran Kajfeš, the masterful trumpeter and synthesizer wizard, took center stage with his ensemble, Tropiques. The group’s 6/4 saunter slowburner set the tone for a mesmerizing performance, with Kajfeš’s trumpet shining brightly against the lush backdrop of Alex Zethson’s piano, organ, and synthesizer, Johan Berthling’s double bass, Johan Holmegard’s drums, Josefin Runsteen’s violin, and Leo Svensson Sander’s cello.
The ensemble’s thoughtful constellation created a perfect balance of sound, allowing each instrument to take its turn in the spotlight. The cello and violin, in particular, danced together in perfect sync, their harmonious sways a joy to behold. As the performance progressed, the compositions evolved into long, playful journeys with subtly complex time signatures that belied their simplicity. Goran’s reverby trumpet floated effortlessly above, adding a dreamy sheen to the music.
Quasimodo Club
The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters
Later that evening, at the iconic Quasimodo club, The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters took the stage, featuring Mariam Rezaei on turntables, Mette Rasmussen on alto saxophone, Gabriele Mitelli on piccolo trumpet and electronics, and Lukas König on drums and electronics. The quartet’s sound was an entrancing blend of electro-acoustic and primal elements, with a hypermodern edge.
Despite the dense mix, the sound was surprisingly clear, and the textural effects added a trippy, freaky atmosphere to the performance. The crowd, a diverse and enthusiastic audience, was completely absorbed in the music, with many dancing along to the infectious beats. The performance was an unforgettable experience, showcasing the band’s breathtaking energy and innovative sound.
November 2, 2024
Wrens
Back at Quasimodo, the group Wrens took the stage, featuring Ryan Easter on trumpet, electronics, and vocals, Elias Stemeseder on piano and synthesizers, Lester St. Louis on cello and sound design, and Jason Nazary on drums and synthesizers. The ensemble’s electronic-flavored jazz-hip hop fusion was a high-energy blend of rebellious, political, and angry emotions, with Easter’s spoken-word improv-poetry taking center stage.
As the performance progressed, each band member showcased their incredible skill, particularly Nazary’s virtuosic drumming and Stemeseder’s mastery of an array of synthesizers. The group’s unique sound, with its random glitches and effects, created an immersive experience that left the audience spellbound.
Artist Talks
At the Haus der Berliner Festspiele, a series of artist talks took place, featuring Sylvie Courvoisier, Darius Jones, and Otomo Yoshihide. Darius Jones spoke about his composition process, combining graphic notation with standard notation and improvisational elements to create a unique visual experience for the listener. He also shared his experiences at the Western Front, a Vancouver-based artist-run center, where he wrote and recorded music inspired by indigenous culture and traditional Bon dance music.
Sylvie Courvoisier discussed her approach to assembling a band, prioritizing chemistry and camaraderie with fellow musicians. She also talked about her experiences writing for different instruments, including trumpet and vibraphone, and her collaborative process with musicians like Patricia Brennan.
Otomo Yoshihide shared his early struggles as a guitarist and his discovery of electronics, which allowed him to explore new sounds and textures. He also spoke about his passion for American free jazz and his experiences working with non-musicians in Fukushima after the 2011 earthquake.
Darius Jones fLuXkit: Vancouver (it’s suite but sacred)
Darius Jones’ ensemble took the stage at the Haus der Berliner Festspiele, featuring Peggy Lee on cello, Jesse Zubot and Josh Zubot on violin, James Meger on double bass, Gerald Cleaver on drums, and Jones himself on alto saxophone and composition.
The performance was a thrilling, pulsing ride, with the strings evoking the sound of wild geese. The music was immediate, frantic, and commanding, yet never violent, creating a sense of tension and release. Jones introduced a song about friendship, a beautiful, wonky, and descending melody that spoke to the power of relationships.
Sylvie Courvoisier Poppy Seeds
Sylvie Courvoisier’s ensemble Poppy Seeds took the stage, featuring Sylvie on piano, Patricia Brennan on vibraphone, Thomas Morgan on double bass, and Dan Weiss on drums. The performance was an electrifying experience, demanding attention and energy from the audience.
Sylvie’s piano work was a marvel, shifting between lilting arpeggios and intricate, knotty passages. Patricia Brennan’s vibraphone shone brightly, while Thomas Morgan’s double bass provided a sensitive, otherworldly foundation. Dan Weiss’s drumming was phenomenal, trading rapid-fire phrases with Sylvie in a thrilling display of musical camaraderie.
As the performance drew to a close, Sylvie showcased her inimitable style, from her sassy stage presence to her breathtaking piano playing.
This series of performances at Haus der Berliner Festspiele and Quasimodo club showcased the diversity and creativity of the musical talents involved. Each performance was unique and captivating, leaving the audience in awe of the musicians’ skill and artistry.
Berlin Jazz Festival 2024: A Showcase of Musical Diversity
The Berlin Jazz Festival 2024 was a resounding success, featuring a diverse lineup of talented musicians from around the world. The festival, which took place from November 1-2, 2024, showcased a range of musical styles, from traditional jazz to experimental and avant-garde sounds.
Goran Kajfeš Tropiques: A Masterful Performance
Goran Kajfeš, the renowned trumpeter and synthesizer wizard, took center stage with his ensemble, Tropiques. The group’s 6/4 saunter slowburner set the tone for a mesmerizing performance, with Kajfeš’s trumpet shining brightly against the lush backdrop of Alex Zethson’s piano, organ, and synthesizer, Johan Berthling’s double bass, Johan Holmegard’s drums, Josefin Runsteen’s violin, and Leo Svensson Sander’s cello.
The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters: An Electrifying Experience
Later that evening, at the iconic Quasimodo club, The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters took the stage, featuring Mariam Rezaei on turntables, Mette Rasmussen on alto saxophone, Gabriele Mitelli on piccolo trumpet and electronics, and Lukas König on drums and electronics. The quartet’s sound was an entrancing blend of electro-acoustic and primal elements, with a hypermodern edge.
Wrens: A High-Energy Performance
Back at Quasimodo, the group Wrens took the stage, featuring Ryan Easter on trumpet, electronics, and vocals, Elias Stemeseder on piano and synthesizers, Lester St. Louis on cello and sound design, and Jason Nazary on drums and synthesizers. The ensemble’s electronic-flavored jazz-hip hop fusion was a high-energy blend of rebellious, political, and angry emotions, with Easter’s spoken-word improv-poetry taking center stage.
Artist Talks: Insights into the Creative Process
At the Haus der Berliner Festspiele, a series of artist talks took place, featuring Sylvie Courvoisier, Darius Jones, and Otomo Yoshihide. The talks provided valuable insights into the creative process, with each artist sharing their unique approach to composition, collaboration, and performance.
Darius Jones fLuXkit: A Thrilling Performance
Darius Jones’ ensemble took the stage at the Haus der Berliner Festspiele, featuring Peggy Lee on cello, Jesse Zubot and Josh Zubot on violin, James Meger on double bass, Gerald Cleaver on drums, and Jones himself on alto saxophone and composition. The performance was a thrilling, pulsing ride, with the strings evoking the sound of wild geese.
Sylvie Courvoisier Poppy Seeds: An Electrifying Experience
Sylvie Courvoisier’s ensemble Poppy Seeds took the stage, featuring Sylvie on piano, Patricia Brennan on vibraphone, Thomas Morgan on double bass, and Dan Weiss on drums. The performance was an electrifying experience, demanding attention and energy from the audience. Sylvie’s piano work was a marvel, shifting between lilting arpeggios and intricate, knotty passages.
How does the integration of various musical influences, such as hip-hop and electronics, contribute to the evolution of contemporary jazz?
Hypermodern edge. The dense mix of sounds was surprisingly clear, creating a trippy atmosphere that captivated the audience and encouraged them to immerse themselves in the performance. The infectious beats transformed the venue into a pulsating dance floor, showcasing the band’s breathtaking energy.
Wrens: A High-Energy Performance
The following night at Quasimodo, Wrens delivered a high-energy performance that blended jazz and hip-hop influences. Featuring Ryan Easter on trumpet, electronics, and vocals, alongside Elias Stemeseder on piano and synthesizers, Lester St. Louis on cello and sound design, and Jason Nazary on drums and synthesizers, this ensemble offered a poetic critique of contemporary issues through Easter’s spoken-word improvisation. The intricate electronic textures and energetic drumming provided a rich soundscape that left the audience spellbound and engaged.
Artist Talks: Insights from the Frontlines of Creativity
Amidst the performances, the Haus der Berliner Festspiele hosted a series of artist talks where prominent musicians shared their creative processes and experiences. Darius Jones discussed his innovative use of graphic notation, while Sylvie Courvoisier emphasized the importance of chemistry and camaraderie in assembling her band. Otomo Yoshihide reflected on his journey as a guitarist and electronics pioneer, showcasing the intersections of traditional and modern influences in his work.
Darius Jones fLuXkit: A Thrilling Experience
Darius Jones’ fLuXkit ensemble brought the stage to life with an exhilarating performance that captivated the audience. The ensemble delivered a soundscape filled with tension and release, featuring Peggy Lee on cello, Jesse Zubot and Josh Zubot on violin, James Meger on double bass, and Gerald Cleaver on drums. The music was immediate and commanding, highlighting the interconnectedness of friendship through evocative melodies.
Sylvie Courvoisier Poppy Seeds: An Electrifying Showcase
Sylvie Courvoisier’s ensemble, Poppy Seeds, offered a remarkable performance featuring intricate rhythms and vivid melodies. Courvoisier’s dazzling piano work, Patricia Brennan’s shimmering vibraphone, and Dan Weiss’s explosive drumming combined to create an electrifying atmosphere that demanded the audience’s full attention. The interplay between the musicians was a testament to their collective artistry and creativity.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Jazz
The Berlin Jazz Festival 2024 showcased an impressive diversity of talent, emphasizing the beauty of collaboration and innovation within the musical landscape. Each performance was a unique testament to the power of jazz in bridging cultural and artistic divides, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and ensuring that the spirit of this vibrant genre continues to thrive.
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