Innuendo
Mons, 2024
9/10
The esteemed saxophonist, composer and arranger Tobias Hoffmann finds himself in a Big Band setting again for these 8 new tracks that includes players from Vienna, Graz and Germany.
The title track starts with dynamic strings and swift drumming that makes for a cinematic opener of energy and beauty, and “Summer Solstice” continues the meticulousness with the dreamy keys and soulful brass emitting much grace.
“Sanctuary” and “Convictions” land in the middle. The former is an intimate moment of sophistication and warmth that features a tenor solo from Martin Harms, while the latter is a rich album highlight that employs intricate bass lines amid soaring brass.
Arriving near the end, “The Lake” adds mystery to the recording, as the moody winds glide with intrigue, and “Perseverance” exits with a mesmerizing quality that allows the frisky drums and dense horns to illuminate a timeless version of jazz.
A true hero in the area of contemporary large ensemble jazz, Hoffmann again turns in a first rate effort, where eclectic songwriting, personal moments an even a tribute to the rock band Queen don’t disappoint.
Travels well with: Tobias Hoffmann Jazz Orchestra- Conspiracy; Tobias Hoffmann Nonet- Retrospective