Bart Defoort & Emanuele Cisi Quintet / Pascal Schumacher Quartet

BART DEFOORT & EMANUELE CISI QUINTET

This European Quintet consists of five seasoned musicians who have known each other for fifteen years through various musical projects. This line-up had its premiere during a successful Jazzlab Series tour in the autumn of 2007. A very beautiful and strong group sound has grown from the concert series. This is due to the specific and original sound of a front line of two tenor saxes in combination with the very tight, swinging and inventive rhythm section. The repertoire mainly consists of compositions by Defoort, Cisiand Van Rossum. They evoke the atmosphere of bebop and modal jazz. The swinging is complex, with fiery songs alternating with bluesy passages and moving ballads. The musical communication and playing pleasure between the musicians is extremely palpable and a pleasure for the eyes and ears. A brand new CD was recorded in 2008.

PASCAL SCHUMACHER QUARTET

This quartet is an enthusiastic and dynamic ensemble whose style balances between modern jazz, post-bop and ballads. Pascal Schumacher (Luxembourg) is becoming one of the stalwarts within the new generation of vibraphonists. With his quartet, modern jazz, post-bop and ballads alternate in a dynamic and colorful interplay. The group will release their promising fourth album on Enja Records in April.