Timo Vollbrecht feat. Ralph Alessi, Elias Stemeseder, Chris Tordini & Thomas Strønen - Bremen New York (2025)

Saxophonist, Doctor of Philosophy, Ivy League professor, and scholar Timo Vollbrecht is working on a book about ECM legend Manfred Eicher. So, it is no surprise that his new release, Bremen/New York, is a textbook example of what ECM is all about — meticulously recorded atmospheric and noirish music performed with the sensibilities of a small chamber ensemble. Adding to the ECM nature of the release are three members of Vollbrecht’s ensemble that have recorded for that label — trumpeter Ralph Alessi, bassist Chris Tordini and drummer Thomas Stronen. The only outlier is pianist Elias Stemeseder who has worked closely with Vollbrecht on some of his more recent recordings. Whether the ensemble is inspired by the Latin American vibe of “Con Tempo,” the Middle Eastern groove of “Brighton Blues,” the ethereal sound of “Spicy Moon” or the plaintive quality of “New York Love Affair,” the tunes are marked with dark twists, reflective refrains and soothing passages. Vollbrecht’s seven originals make perfect launching pads for a variety of solos. Alessi weaves line after line over the steady/loose rhythms of “Con Tempo.” Vollbrecht’s sinewy sax accentuates the Middle Eastern feel of “Brighton Blues.” Stronen’s resonant bass solo is perfect for the dark mood of “Spicy Moon.” Whether comping or soloing, Stemeseder’s rolling chords, single note piano runs and chord stabs punctuate the music. Stronen’s steady, yet fluid drumming adds interest to even the slowest of tunes such as “Dark.” Like Siamese twins, Vollbrecht and Alessi often accompany each other in knotty unison phrases. Alessi’s use of the mute against Vollbrecht’s bright sax sound is particularly pleasing on “Brighton Blues.” About the title, Bremen/New York — the music was recorded live in Bremen’s Radio Hall with a group of musicians Vollbrecht has enjoyed working with in New York. Based on the results, they enjoyed the opportunity to explore the sonics, moods and perfection associated with ECM records.

BOTTOM LINE: Although Timo Vollbrecht’s Bremen/New York is recorded on Berthold Records, it is steeped in the tradition of ECM Records, a label Vollbrecht is writing a book about. The music is atmospheric. The musicianship of the ensemble is second to none.
The recording quality is superb. Fans of ECM Records will want to explore the music of Bremen/New York.