Label: Mons Records, 2022
Personnel - Nils Eikmeier: guitar; Yaroslav Likhachev: tenor saxophone; Julian Walleck: bass; Thomas Wörle: drums.
Cologne-based guitarist Nils Eikmeier makes his debut as a leader with Stories, a quartet album steeped in the jazz tradition and with fair touches of modernity. This body of work consists of seven originals delineated with a variety of inspirations and moods in mind. With him are saxophonist Yaroslav Likhachev, bassist Julian Walleck and drummer Thomas Wörle, musicians whose synergy makes the music thrive.
“Auckland” is a post-bop 4/4 workout based on a simple form that places Eikmeier right in the center. His honeymoon in New Zealand served as an inspiration, and his reverb-drenched guitar solo, sounding explicit and alluring, conveys joyful moments. He is followed by Likhachev, whose darting lines arrive with full-bodied tonal flavors and logical articulation. This opener is the strongest piece on the album, and is only rivaled by “A.I.”, a minor blues in 5/4 whose early guitar-bass-drums moments include searing licks and expressive lyricism all around. Then, is the saxophonist who steps forward to smear the sonic tapestry with melodies that are as much eloquent as they are colorful.
Also immersed in a spellbinding contemplation of tinges, the popish “Autumn Song” finds the group in a quiet, breezy communion while modulating conveniently within its structural outlining. With a whole lotta energy and yet with a conventional posture, “Borders” and “Spectrum” share an identical spirit, festooned with verve and swinging drive. In contrast, the laid-back title track, “Stories”, could be described as another leisurely stroll, but carries no less feeling than the other numbers. The guitarist fills the air here with a sense of movement and freedom.
Stylistically, the album doesn’t break new ground. However, the rapport and the energy of the unit makes it worth a visit.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Auckland ► 06- A.I. ► 07 - Autumn Song