Karl Ratzer Trio - Vienna Red (2025) [Hi-Res]

Venerable Vienna-based guitarist Karl Ratzer joins forces with bassist Peter Herbert and Howard Curtis on his 36th album as a leader or co-leader, available on CD and limited signed double vinyl editions. Their indelible chemistry was forged over many years of gigging at the Viennese jazz club Porgy & Bess. The results of that longstanding gig are readily apparent on 'Vienna Red', a live recording documenting the trio at that very same Jazzclub.

An intimate and elegant affair, it showcases Ratzer with his highly interactive rhythm tandem alternately swinging fervently, exploring seductive Bossa Novas and plumbing the depths of emotion on moving ballads marked by the leader's heart-wrenching, affecting vocals. And the release of this very potent album happens to coincide with the guitarist's 75th birthday.