Conspiracy
Mons, 2022
9/10
The Austrian saxophonist, composer and arranger Tobias Hoffmann returns with a big band effort that was recorded during the pandemic, and allows for his rich jazz vision to unfold with many players on hand for the 10 tracks.
The dynamic and bright title track opens the listen with animated horns and agile drums that can be both loud and quiet, as Robert Unterköfler’s tenor saxophone sax makes an impression, and “Elegy” follows with an absent rhythm section that allows the horns to cultivate a reflective and stirring presence.
“Relentless” occupies the middle spot and leads busy and dense with alto saxophone prowess provided by Patrick Dunst, while “Trailblazers” showcases Jonas Brickmann and Kasperi Sarikoski’s solos on baritone sax and trombone amid the frisky drumming.
The final 2 tracks, “Who Knows Intro” and “Who Knows”, are equally impressive, where the former hosts Daniel Holzleitner’s solo trombone alongside other trombones and a stylish beat, and the latter focuses on rock ideas, where Vilkka Wahl’s thick electric guitar finishes the listen on a very high note.
A listen that spans nostalgic ideas, darker ebbs and cinematic exploration, Hoffmann and company create an experience that fans of jazz from any era will enjoy.
Travels well with: Tobias Hoffmann Nonet- Retrospective; Will Vinson- Tripwire