Alba

Album Description

"Alba," the debut duo album by Markus Stockhausen and Florian Weber, is a captivating exploration of avant-garde jazz, released on ECM Records in April 2016. This album marks the first recorded collaboration between the renowned trumpeter Markus Stockhausen and the accomplished pianist Florian Weber, a duo that had been performing together for six years prior to this release. Their chemistry is evident throughout the 14 tracks, each offering a unique blend of improvisation and compositional depth.

The album spans a diverse range of moods and textures, from the introspective "Mondtraum" to the energetic "Surfboard," showcasing the duo's versatility and musical synergy. Florian Weber's piano work is a standout feature, complementing Stockhausen's trumpet with a delicate yet powerful touch. Tracks like "Barycenter" and "Resonances" highlight their ability to create intricate, interwoven musical dialogues, while pieces like "Better World" and "Zephir" offer moments of serene beauty.

"Alba" is a testament to the duo's long-standing musical partnership and their shared vision of pushing the boundaries of jazz. With a total duration of over an hour, this album is a rich and rewarding listening experience, perfect for fans of avant-garde and experimental music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Markus Stockhausen's work or a newcomer to his music, "Alba" offers a compelling introduction to his unique artistic voice and his collaborative spirit with Florian Weber.

1 april 2016

℗ 2016 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Markus Stockhausen

Markus Stockhausen is a versatile German trumpeter and composer who seamlessly blends the worlds of jazz and classical music. Born into a musical legacy, being the son of the renowned composer Karlheinz Stockhausen, Markus has carved out his own unique path in the avant-garde genre. His discography is a testament to his eclectic tastes, featuring collaborations with esteemed musicians and ensembles, such as pianist Florian Weber and the Metropole Orkest. Markus's performances often showcase his prowess on both the trumpet and flugelhorn, delivering intricate and emotive solos that captivate audiences. Beyond his solo work, he has also contributed to his father's compositions, notably performing the challenging trumpet part in "Aries." Markus is also the initiator of the "LONGTONESFORPEACE" initiative, using his music to promote peace and unity across Germany. His music is not just about listening; it's about experiencing the depth and breadth of his artistic vision.