Depart

The virtuoso Swiss-Austrian powerhouse trio. An electric, pulsating mix of alpine folklore and New York downtown grooves, of scintillating sax hymns and reverberating rhythms. Depart -- featuring Harry Sokal on saxophone, Heiri Känzig on bass and Jojo Mayer on drums, -- is once again up and running. When Depart took their last program on tour across Europe, they brought audiences to their feet. The three musicians then parted ways and spent some time developing their own individual projects. For years already, Jojo Mayer has lived in New York, enjoying success with his band Nerve, among others. Harry Sokal has been playing lead sax for the legendary Vienna Art Orchestra and in 2005 was named Musician of the Year in Austria. Blue Note Recording Artist Heiri Känzig has been in high demand throughout Europe as a bassist and is the leader of the Tien Shan-Swiss project. The booming bass player also holds the Canton of Zurichs 2005 title for best composer. The virtuoso soloists of this jazz-alpinist Power Trio play an explosive mix of exciting rhythms and captivating melodies. Their performances provide them with ample opportunities for playing expressive, daring solos to complement their subtle yet sparkling ensemble work. "Everything reflects the spirit of the times...not just a fashion craze or cosmetically enhanced" writes Jazzpodium. Depart plays music that goes straight to the head as well as to the feet. Discography: Depart (1987) Reloaded (2006) Mountain Messenger (2008) www.departjazz.com