ProStudioMasters.com

"... like wandering through an audio gallery of small musical sculptures, some delicate miniatures, some bolder in their impact, all exquisitely formed ... strong melodies, striking harmonic flow, a variety of moods, some tracks including turns and twists, some content to say a single thing and say it well. But there is also a relaxed openness about the performances; they could be impromptu ... the playing of both men is eloquent and their rapport suggests they get along very well. One of the most enjoyable and often happiest albums of the year so far." - TheJazzBreakfast.com Despite their six year history, Alba is the first recording from trumpeter Markus Stockhausen and duo partner, pianist Florian Weber. Though very different in their connections to the language of jazz, they share a deep interest in the process of creative expression: of looking inwards and outwards with intensity, for echoes, resonances, insights. The dramatic arc and palette is wide on this album, from joyous and melodic to refracted optimism to chill sobriety. At times, lines blur imperceptibly between composition and improvisation; subtly shifting contrasts of mood and feeling mark the music.