"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.
Vinylscout