The Andy Sugg Group – The Berlin Session

Eastside Radio’s Album of the Week is The Berlin Session by The Andy Sugg Group.

Melbourne saxophonist Andy Sugg is one of Australia’s hidden gems. The Berlin Session, recorded in the German Capital last year, features Sugg’s daughter Kate Kelsey–Sugg on piano, Sean Pentland on bass and Jan Leipnitz on drums.

Sugg was clearly inspired by his time in Germany, describing the musical spirit of Berlin driving the album to its fruition, and without doubt The Berlin Session is filled with spirit and expression. All original compositions by Sugg, the LP covers a diverse range Jazz, as Sugg leaves aside his tenor and adopts a soprano sax throughout.

The result is an authentic and original sound, as the quartet cohesively meander through moods. Busy drums, rippling pianos and speedy sax solos are counter-balanced with smooth ballads, dreamy escapades and patient interplay. The sound is moody yet emotive, pressured yet controlled.

Sugg’s decision to just perform on the tenor sax has given The Berlin Session a quite unique and remarkable energy. It has created a more intimate and introspective feel throughout, an album that really gets those little grey cells tickling.

The Berlin Session is an independent release by Andy Sugg. For more information go to andysugg.com

Stay closely tuned to Eastside as we are giving away a copy of The Berlin Session to a listener every-day this week!