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Album Review: Helveticus «Our Way»

concerto10-04-20241 min. read

Three Swiss jazz musicians from three different generations: That's «Helveticus». Their second album «Our Way» is in the ballot for a Grammy Award in the categories «Album of the Year», «Best Jazz Instrumental Album» and «Best Engineered Album, non-classical».

«Our Way» is the trio's second album. It combines tradition in the form of Swiss folklore with modern jazz. The youngest of the three, trombonist Samuel Blaser, is the master of his instrument and sets the melody line. He has been influenced by Californian Glenn Ferris in his playing with the velvety tone. But Humair and Känzig are much more than just accompanists - their individual playing techniques turn the whole thing into a complete work of art. Daniel Humair is regarded as one of the most swinging drummers with high, precise cymbal tones. He models the tempo and pays attention to interaction. As a bandleader and sideman, he can look back on a career spanning more than 60 years and has been involved in over 100 recordings. Bassist Heiri Känzig gained recognition as a member of the Vienna Art Orchestra, where he worked for 16 years. His bass playing is characterised by astonishing tonal finesse. The Swiss jazz critic Peter Rüedi wrote about him that he is the most striking of the Swiss double bass players and that he overcomes gravity with his bulky instrument. The CD ‘Our Way’ offers original versions of classics such as Monk's ‘Jackie-Ing’ or Ellington's ‘Creole Love Call’ alongside some of his own compositions.Arnold Loimer, concertoThis article was published in the June/July issue of «concerto». More information and subscriptions at concerto .

Helveticus live at Moods

  • Album Release «Our Way»

    • Helveticus (Blaser, Känzig, Humair)

      Jazz
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