Here a few, small thoughts concerning yesterday's gig in Stadtgarten, Cologne (thanks b.t.w. for the wonderful experience!): Nils Wogram's compositions remain a unique space ship elegantly cruising through his very own parallel universe.

By integrating strings, as in his so beautiful and sophisticated soloing on the trombone, which is not just virtuous but always deeply committed to jazz tradition, he reveals how educated and savant he is in the history not only of jazz but of music itself. Many quotes of other styles and genres by never losing the golden thread. Each of the four band members shows his tremendous mastery, the string trio fits in very well, even as far as the very complex rhythmic structures of most of Wogram's compositions are concerned. Always being in awe of his drumming, earlier on I had difficulties watching Mr. Rueckert playing. Too much arrogance and ostentatious extravagance. Not so yesterday. Now one can enjoy his absolutely stunning mastership with both ears and eyes, all the more, as he brings his exuberant quality completely into service of the ‘bigger picture’. Glad to come out to Cologne yesterday!

Christian B., Cologne