UNDER THE SURFACE

Julia Hulsmann's Quartet resurfaces with a fresh Norwegian voice on horn in tow and presents an attractive batch of originals that finds the group thoughtfully exploring common ground with a knack for adventure. As on past outings, each quartet member contributes music to the session, the leader herself being responsible for half the program. Saxophonist Uli Kempendorff's introduction to Julia's trio on 2019's Not Far From Here already brought a new dimension to the group's interplay. This sense is again amplified and expanded upon through the addition of Norwegian trumpeter Hildegunn Oiseth. Spellbinding lyricism and playful rhythmic and melodic interaction conspire throughout Under The Surface, a gem in Julia Hulsmann's increasingly impressive ECM oeuvre.