The German saxophonist Nicole Johänntgen surprises again and again with new ideas. With the transatlantic formation Henry, she has already brought the cheerful and elegiac sounds of the marching bands from New Orleans back to life on three albums. In conjunction with her new album "Labyinth II", she presents herself in a trio with tuba player Jon Hansen and percussionist David Stauffacher. Both the unusual instrumentation and the luminosity of Johänntgen's own compositions are fascinating. Hansen uses the tuba to some extent effectively as a rhythm instrument, while the leader convinces with her warm, core tone and subtle phrasing. Grooving and thoughtful pieces alternate on this beautiful, mature album, which sounds as if it was created without any effort and which Johänntgen presents at the Nica Jazz Club. "Labyrinth II" is dynamic, tender, powerful and provided with a good portion of groove. Despite a minimal line-up, the band is a true powerhouse. The three artists come from Germany, the USA and Switzerland and all live near Zurich.

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