"Wasted & Wanted," released in 2012 on ACT Music, is a bold and adventurous journey into the world of contemporary jazz, courtesy of the distinctive piano trio led by Michael Wollny. This album is a testament to the group's boundary-pushing philosophy, seamlessly blending original compositions with innovative treatments of classical pieces by Mahler and Schubert. The trio, completed by Eva Kruse on double bass and Eric Schaefer on drums, delivers a unique alchemy of improvisation and structured songwriting.
The album opens with the title track, "Wasted & Wanted," setting the tone with its rhythmically complex and equivocal nature. Michael Wollny's desire to infuse punk energy into their jazz is evident throughout, making "Wasted & Wanted" one of the most distinctive and adventurous recordings of the trio. The studio is used as an instrument, adding layers of depth and texture to the music.
"Wasted & Wanted" features a diverse range of tracks, from the haunting "Symphony No. V, Mov 1: Trauermarsch" to the playful "Cembalo Manifeszt" and the introspective "Whiteout." Each piece showcases the trio's exceptional musicianship and their ability to blend genres and styles effortlessly. The album's 47-minute duration is filled with moments of brilliance, making it a standout release in the jazz genre.