"Relax with My Horns" is a captivating album by renowned jazz musician Hans Koller, released on June 19, 2014, under the MPS label. This concise yet powerful collection spans just under 30 minutes, featuring eight tracks that blend the genres of krautrock, cool jazz, and free jazz, showcasing Koller's versatility and innovation.
The album opens with the title track, "Relax," setting a smooth and inviting tone. It's followed by "The Sweetest Girl I've Ever Known," a track that highlights Koller's ability to infuse warmth and charm into his music. The album also includes two parts of "Music for Pablo," dedicated to the legendary Pablo Picasso, demonstrating Koller's appreciation for artistic cross-pollination.
"Relax with My Horns" is a trio effort, with Hans Rettenbacher and Rafi Lüderitz joining Koller, creating a dynamic interplay of instruments. The album's sound quality is exceptional, recorded on SABA, known for its high-fidelity recordings. Tracks like "The Twister" and "Half and Half" showcase the trio's ability to blend different styles seamlessly, while "Ziag Hin" and "Blues for Marina" offer a more introspective and melodic experience.
This album is a testament to Hans Koller's enduring influence in the jazz world, offering a blend of classic and contemporary sounds that will appeal to both longtime fans and new listeners alike.