Three jazz quartets are capturing the hearts of audiences with distinctive performances, interweaving various musical styles and engaging their listeners across multiple venues.
On January 7, 2025, the Hans Fickelscher Quartet performed at the Christuskirche, Heidenheim, showcasing gospel music with their own interpretations. This performance, called "Traditional Gospel Concert," featured renowned songs with untraditional arrangements. The ensemble is composed of Heidenheimer percussionist Hans Fickelscher, guitarist Martin Wiedmann, tenor saxophonist Jürgen Häußler, and singer-pianist Beatrix Steinhübl. The quartet’s aim was not just to perform traditional gospel pieces but to explore the genre's roots deeply.
Steinhübl is particularly passionate about gospel music, having sung it since she was 16. She expressed, "The 'incredible intensity' with which gospel music is lived out in the USA will likely never be found here [in Europe]. It’s about bringing out your innermost feelings." The performance's experimental essence began with two Whitney Houston songs, allowing the group to express their individual pathways through gospel.
With familiar tunes by Harry Belafonte and Ray Charles, the audience initially hesitated to join the Circle Song but soon surrendered to the moment, ending the concert with enthusiastic applause and demands for encores.
Another compelling performance is set for January 17, 2025, by the Moles Ahead quartet, which brings its blend of jazz standards and original compositions to the Kurhaustheater Foyer, Bad Bramstedt. The group has been active since 2017, exploring various styles ranging from jazz fusion to ballads. The quartet features musicians with extensive backgrounds, making for rich soundscapes. Individual band members have experiences ranging from rock and funk bands to free improvisation.
Attendees can expect the performance to reflect both the youthfulness of the ensemble and the wealth of experience the members bring. According to the venue's promotional material, the concert begins at 19:30 with tickets available for 18 euros at the door.
Compiling diverse musical influences, the upcoming Cats & Breakkies concert on January 17, 2025, at Moritzhof, will offer attendees something different. Infusing classic jazz with electronic and dance music elements, this Berlin-based quartet blends club music with jazz flair. Their sound is approximated as "Organic Electro." With drums, synthesizers, guitar, and bass, Cats & Breakkies invite dancers to join them for energetic performances as well as listen for detailed musical explorations.
The fusion of diverse genres and the public’s positive responses to jazz quartets reflect the vibrancy of current music scenes. With audiences eager for fresh takes on traditional styles, groups like the Hans Fickelscher Quartet, Moles Ahead, and Cats & Breakkies are poised to engage attendees and leave lasting impressions.