German saxophonist, composer and arranger Tobias Hoffmann returns with his second big band album "Innuendo". Following the success of 2022's "Conspiracy", this new release continues Hoffmann's evolution as a large ensemble writer, taking his Jazz Orchestra to even greater heights. With "Innuendo", Hoffmann has composed an eclectic set of intricate, genre-blending works including the title track that was awarded “Best Composition” in the category “Original Composition - Large Ensemble” at the 47th Downbeat Student Music Awards. The result is a deeply personal, stunningly mature album that confirms Hoffmann’s reputation as one of the most exciting creative voices in contemporary large ensemble jazz.
The album opens with the dynamic title track "Innuendo", a Downbeat award-winning composition that pays homage to the legendary rock band Queen. Highlights include "Summer Solstice", the energetic "No Way Back" in an odd meter piece inspired by Sipiagin and Potter, and the deeply moving "Sanctuary". In addition, Hoffmann explores new realms from Bob Brookmeyer's "white note" exercise on "Convictions" to fusing classical, minimalism and jazz on "Bipolarity". The atmospheric "The Lake" captures the serene power of nature through inventive solo sections.
With "Innuendo", Tobias Hoffmann has crafted a true tour-de-force that showcases his remarkable growth as a composer and arranger. Blending a multitude of influences into a cohesive whole, he delivers a thrillingly eclectic yet profoundly unified listening experience. Bolstered by a stellar ensemble overflowing with virtuosic soloists, this captivating release cements Hoffmann's place as a creative voice the in the current contemporary jazz landscape.
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Saxophones
Florian Trübsbach (Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute & Clarinet)
Patrick Dunst (Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute & Clarinet)
Robert Unterköfler (Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute & Clarinet)
Martin Harms (Tenor Saxophone, Bass Clarinet, Flute & Clarinet)
Jonas Brinckmann (Baritone Saxophone & Bass Clarinet)
Trumpets & Flugelhorns
Maximilian Seibert
Sebastian Burneci
Florian Menzel
Gerhard Ornig
Jakob Helling
Trombones
Simon Harrer (Trombone)
Robert Bachner (Trombone & Valve Trombone)
Daniel Holzleitner (Trombone)
Johannes Oppel (Bass Trombone & Tuba)
Rhythm Section
Vilkka Wahl (Guitar)
Viola Hammer (Piano & Synthesizer)
Ivar Roban Krizic (Bass)
Reinhold Schmölzer (Drums & Electronics)
Conductor
Tobias Hoffmann
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All compositions by Tobias M. Hoffmann (AKM)
Produced by Tobias Hoffmann
www.tobiashoffmannmusic.com
The recording was supervised, assisted and co-produced by Ursula Reicher.
www.ursulareicher.com
Recorded August 25-27, 2023 by Andreas Kapfer at Audiotope Studios (Graz, Austria)
www.audiotope.at
Mixed and mastered by Werner Angerer at Acoustic Art Studios (Vienna, Austria)
www.acousticartstudios.com
Video by Simon Reithofer
www.reithofer-media.com
Cover and Artwork designed by Zippo Zimmermann
www.designladen.com
available on CD and all digital platforms via MONS Records
www.monsrecords.de/en/
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