Bernhard Wiesinger - Enlightened (2024) [Hi-Res]

"Enlightened" is only the second album of his own in Wiesinger's career. The tenor and soprano saxophonist, born in 1981, also recorded this in New York City with a top-rate band. Realizing such a project not only requires organizational talent and a certain willingness to take risks; you also need inner strength and a firm belief that something special will be created. "You can only plan something like that to a limited extent," he admitted. "It's about more than just the right tones. The material must fit, but above all the chemistry must be right." A question of decisions on different levels, for example regarding the correct lineup.

Enlightenment: this can be meant in a metaphysical and spiritual sense, but also in a more down-to-earth context, i.e., almost in everyday life. When it comes to decisions, for example, there is ideally a moment of clarity, of enlightenment. Such experiences of certainty are part of life and can help us to be at peace with ourselves, achieve self-confidence and make decisive progress. Bernhard Wiesinger called his new album and its first track "Enlightened" for a good reason. The saxophonist and composer from Austria, who has been active in the wider Viennese scene for years, believes in the positive power of such moments. This album is an excellent example of this.

Bernhard Wiesinger - Tenor Saxophone
Bill Stewart - Drums
Boris Kozlov - Double bass
Peter Bernstein - Guitar
Chien Chien Lu - Vibraphone