Kaleidoskop

Kaleidoscope—a poetic burst of virtuosity, at once wistful, promising, and fulfilling. Four truly extraordinary musicians span a wide musical spectrum, elegantly and charmingly weaving modern jazz with folkloric elements from Southeast Europe and the Orient.

Kaleidoscope. Translated as “seeing beautiful forms,” the title can certainly be taken literally here—as a brilliant interplay of all the colors of the spectrum, condensed into a captivating sonic experience. Jazz guitarist Christian Hammer, clearly blessed in his quest for beauty, found three powerful fellow musicians and thus a perfect lineup for his quartet.

In his dazzling playing, saxophonist Dimitrij Markitantov blends modern jazz saxophone with the vibrant, shimmering sounds of Southeast Europe. All of this is embedded and surrounded by Christian Hammer’s jazz guitar, which at times contrasts, at times complements, at times plays around the sound with richness, at times quietly and cautiously feeling its way, and then again decisively, powerfully, and full of stylistic brilliance. Alex Morsey lays the impressive foundation of the music with his double bass and tuba, and with his unique playing style also delivers solo highlights of overwhelming musicality. Fethi B.O. holds the rhythmic reins, using his breathtaking and fast-paced playing to set the framework that opens up space for the interpretation of original compositions as well as arrangements from jazz and world music.