Born into a musical family in 1975, twin brothers Michael and Florian Arbenz have developed a deep musical bond through a long history of creating music together. As leading lights on the Swiss jazz scene, the brothers have recorded alongside many of their greatest inspirations including Greg Osby, Dave Liebman, Marc Johnson, Kirk Lightsey, and Bennie Maupin. For their latest release however, a collaboration with legendary bassist Ron Carter, I’d say their creativity surpasses anything they’ve achieved before – and that really is saying something. “The Alpine Session” is a stunning album, filling my heart with a joyous excitement that grows and grows with each and every listen.

Carter has always been one of the brothers’ most influential musical heroes. Miles Davis’s recordings featuring Carter were staples in the Arbenz household, played on repeat throughout their childhood. In their eyes, Carter embodied the groovy, adventurous, and open-minded spirit of jazz like no other living icon. What is truly remarkable, is Carter’s playing on this new release. The energy and passion he brings to this session would make anyone think they were listening to a 37 year old musician in their prime… the fact that Carter was 87 when this album was recorded is nothing short of astonishing. His spirited performance clearly brings the best out of the Arbenz brothers, with this formidable trio creating a quality of music that is rarely reached or surpassed.

The six tracks on this recording showcase the individuality of Michael (piano) and Florian (drums) Arbenz’s playing in swashbuckling style. Their playing is incredible, telepathically attuned to one another’s every move. A deep reverence for the jazz tradition shines through, but the openness and energised nature of their playing lifts this music onto another level altogether. The trio perform four originals alongside two classics, exploring a dynamic range of moods – playful upbeat swing, spacious ballads, and explorative no-holds-barred improvisation. The trio’s dynamic interplay is especially pleasing, leaving me breathless as I listen. Contemporary jazz at its finest, “The Alpine Session” is a modern classic – a must-have for any jazz listener.

from https://ukvibe.org