A Milestone Anniversary: Two Decades of Sonic Innovation

For two decades, Studio Dan, under the guidance of trombonist Daniel Riegler, has been pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. The ensemble, known for its eclectic blend of new jazz, avant-garde experimentation, rock sensibilities, and minimalist compositions, marks its 20th anniversary with the release of two compelling new albums.

Imagine a collective burst of sound, a mere 50 seconds in duration, yet packed with the intensity of a full orchestra. This is the opening gambit of Studio Dan’s latest offering, a testament to the ensemble’s ability to create expansive soundscapes with just ten musicians. Their performances often extend beyond conventional venues, bringing their unique sound to public spaces, engaging audiences in unexpected ways.

Navigating Dystopian Soundscapes: “Walking Thru a Brave New World”

The current global climate,far from inspiring celebratory moods,finds a reflection in Studio Dan’s recent album,released under the label Records & other Stuff. The avant-garde-reductionist album, titled ROS 7, features a recording of Walking Through a Brave New World by Linz composer Axel Seidelmann. This suite embarks on a sonic journey, beginning with a nod to Plutonium City and unfolding into seven improvisations that traverse a spectrum of sounds and gestures. The suite incorporates elements of a dystopian radio play, Don’t be afraid, adding layers of complexity and intrigue.

Starting with the “Plutonium City” cited at the beginning and followed by a further seven, sometimes surprisingly intimate “improvisations”, the suite excites the entire spectrum of sounds and gestures to play the Studio Dan – including the dystopian radio play “Don’t be afraid”.

Braxton Reimagined: “Composition no. 107” and Beyond

The second release, ROS 6, presents a fascinating juxtaposition. It places Anthony Braxton‘s Composition No. 107 (1982), originally written for a trio, alongside original compositions by Daniel Riegler and Michael Tiefenbacher. This album showcases the ensemble’s versatility, seamlessly transitioning between brittle, introverted passages, free-form improvisations, balanced chamber jazz, and casual grooves.

Anthony Braxton, a towering figure in avant-garde jazz, is known for his prolific output and multi-instrumental talents. His influence on contemporary music is undeniable,and Studio Dan’s engagement with his work highlights their commitment to exploring diverse musical landscapes.

The second current publication„ROS 6“, sets the “Composition No. 107” (1982) of the incredibly productive US jazzavant garde and multi-instrumentalist written for trio Anthony Braxton in relation to your own compositions of Daniel Riegler (TB) and Michael Tiefenbacher (P), in trio or quintet format-also this nicely contrasting between brittle introvert, free-improv-terratics, balanced chamber jazz and casual-spinner grooviness.

The Enduring Appeal of Studio Dan

As Studio Dan embarks on its third decade, its commitment to innovation and exploration remains unwavering. These two new albums serve as a testament to their enduring creativity and their willingness to push the boundaries of contemporary music. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado of avant-garde jazz or a curious newcomer, studio Dan’s latest offerings promise a rewarding and thought-provoking listening experience.