| Jazz |
A.MA Records Presents: The Bastian Metz Trio Live — A Masterclass in Jazz Subtlety and Elegance
The Italian label A.MA Records is proud to unveil its latest release, and for the very first time, it features a live recording from the Bastian Metz Trio. Hamburg-based drummer and composer Bastian Metz brings his singular artistry to this live session, joined by a stellar lineup of accomplished musicians. Over the years, Metz has collaborated with luminaries such as bassist Reuben Rogers, trumpeter Charlie Porter, pianist Lutz Krajenski, and the legendary Nils Landgren, a name familiar to followers of European jazz, especially given Landgren’s pivotal role with the German powerhouse label ACT Music.
On this live recording, Metz is joined by Reuben Rogers on double bass, a native of the Virgin Islands whose work with jazz icons like Wynton Marsalis, Roy Hargrove, Jackie McLean, and Dianne Reeves has made him one of the most sought-after bassists in contemporary jazz. Adding melodic depth and harmonic color is tenor and soprano saxophonist Konstantin Herleinsberger, a rising star who has already earned multiple awards and critical acclaim.
What makes this album so remarkable is not just the virtuosity of the players but the surprising structure of the performance itself. Metz approaches the music like a painter with a palette, carefully layering rhythmic colors on the canvas of the rhythm section. The interaction between bass and drums forms a sublime duo, full of nuance and texture, while the audience’s palpable enthusiasm adds an intimate energy to the recording. Metz invites listeners to discover his original compositions here, with the sole exception of the sixth track, a haunting rendition of Johnny Mandel’s classic “Emily.”
The audio quality is impeccable, a hallmark of A.MA Records’ dedication to capturing live performances with pristine clarity. This sonic craftsmanship allows listeners to immerse themselves fully, almost as if they were seated in the front row of the venue, breathing in the atmosphere and the subtleties of every note.
If there’s one defining feature of Bastian Menz’s artistry, it is the lightness of his touch. His drumming never seeks to dominate; instead, it serves as the perfect complement to the trio’s dynamic interplay. The intelligence of the compositions and the saxophone’s lyrical voice often evoke echoes of Gerry Mulligan’s introspective style, marked by deliberate phrasing and thoughtful construction. Herleinsberger’s playing resonates with that same reflective quality, creating moments of captivating tension and release that invite the listener into a deeply personal musical conversation.
The choice to include Johnny Mandel’s “Emily” is no accident—it fits seamlessly into Metz’s artistic vision. The piece highlights the double bass’s commanding elegance, resonating through the space with an imposing grace. It is here that Metz’s charm as a drummer shines most brightly, laying down a rhythmic foundation that both supports and elevates the bass’s melodic storytelling.
This album is, above all, a testament to beauty in expression and an extraordinary level of musical intellect. It’s the kind of recording that stands as a reference point, with three musicians whose synergy captivates from start to finish.
When I listen to this album, two words come immediately to mind: beauty and elegance. While the overall structure may appear traditional, appreciating the full range of its subtle nuances requires a deep and broad knowledge of jazz history and language. And do not miss the final track, its haunting allure will linger long after the music stops, compelling you to hit replay again and again.
Thierry De Clemensat
Member at Jazz Journalists Association
USA correspondent for Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief – Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, June 6th 2025
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Musicians :
Bastian Menz – Drums
Reuben Rogers – Bass
Konstantin Herleinsberger – Tenor and Soprano Saxophone
Tracklist :
1.Late Night Drive
2.Caught In The Middle
3.Linz Shuffle
4.Everything In Between
5.Confronting
6.Emily
7.Social Call
8.Taking A trip
9.Constant Motion
Recorded Live at Jazzhall , Hamburg March 22 2024
All Tracks by Bastian Menz Except for Track #6 by Johnny Mandel m and Track #7 by Gigi Gryce – ©&℗ A.MA Edizioni