JULIA HÜLSMANN OCTET
Julia Hülsmann is among the most prominent European jazz musicians today, possessing a unique affinity for the human voice. With a long and vibrant list of collaborations with vocalists such as Rebekka Bakken, Roger Cicero, and Theo Bleckmann, her versatility is well recognized. The Süddeutsche Zeitung describes her as the “sensitive soul among German jazz pianists,” noting that her melody-driven playing often hints at the proximity to poetry and song.
Now, she has formed an exceptional ensemble with the Norwegian Live Maria Roggen, the Angolan Aline Frazão, and ECHO Jazz Award winner Michael Schiefel. The ECHO Jazz winners Eva Kruse (bass) and Eva Klesse (drums) join them, along with string players Susanne Paul and Héloïse Lefebvre, who bridge the worlds of classical, jazz, and pop music.
When these three wonderful vocalists come together to perform original songs as well as newly composed lyrics set to Julia Hülsmann’s music, a vibrant and captivating sound emerges. Each singer contributes something unique, leading to fresh interpretations of songs by Alanis Morissette, Ani DiFranco, Archive, and Feist.
The musical accompaniment is equally exciting, featuring both a classical piano trio (piano, violin, and cello) and a traditional jazz trio (piano, bass, and drums). The Mitteldeutsche Zeitung remarks on this arrangement: “...to create the most beautiful cross-connections. Here, cello and violin; there, contrabass and drums…. The concept worked, powerfully engaging the audience, thanks in no small part to the excellent band.”
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Julia Hülsmann – piano
Eva Klesse – drums
Eva Kruse – bass
Héloïse Lefebvre – violin
Susanne Paul – cello
Aline Frazão – voice
Live Maria Roggen – voice
Michael Schiefel – voice
“...to create the most beautiful cross-connections. Here, cello and violin; there, contrabass and drums…. The concept worked, powerfully engaging the audience, thanks in no small part to the excellent band.”
— Mitteldeutsche Zeitung