Christian Brenner - Avant L'Ete

The Parisian pianist Christian Brenner mixes limpid impressionism with ensemble modal sequences variously driven by backbeat, jazz waltz and samba rhythm.

I've relished the incisive yet open lyricism and harmonic literacy of the Paris-based Brenner's pianism for nigh on two decades - with elective affinities which run from Wes Montgomery, Miles and Coltrane to Tatum and Monk, Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett, Kenny Barron and Fred Hersch, Herbie Hancock and Pat Metheny, Brenner likes to work with musicians who share his comprehensive knowledge and love of the modern jazz idiom and repertoire, and who, like him, bring fresh and vital perspective to the music.

Featuring his own characterful compositions and mixing to organic effect three solo improvisations with quintet settings and a concluding trio piece, Avant l'eteis Brenner's fourth release on his own Amalgammes label. On every level - compositions and arrangements, playing and programming - it is his finest achievement to date. It follows the diversely cast and most enjoyable trio and quartet items Influences Mineures (2005) and Le son de l'absence (2009) and the quintet session that is Les Belles Heures (2016). - Michael Tucker, Jazz Journal

Christian Brenner: piano
Vincent Mascart: tenor & soprano saxophones
Stephane Mercier: alto saxophone & flute
Bruno Schorp: bass
Frederic Delestre: drums