Swiss jazz ensemble L'Orage is back with their third album, "Water Tower," released on October 4, 2024. This highly anticipated record captures the evolution of the band’s sound, showcasing their ability to move effortlessly through eras and styles while pushing the boundaries of jazz.
Led by drummer Nelson Schaer, the quartet features an exceptional lineup of musicians, including Ganesh Geymeier on tenor saxophone, Robin Girod on guitar, and Fabien Iannone on bass. Together, these four musicians have become pillars of Switzerland’s vibrant music scene, bringing their distinct voices and cohesive chemistry to this remarkable album.
A Journey into Nature and Sound
The making of Water Tower is as much a story of place as it is of music. The album was recorded in the intimate, cozy studio of bassist Fabien Iannone, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The studio, situated in a secluded spot amidst chestnut trees, became the perfect backdrop for the band’s creative process, which included long days of chestnut-picking, fireside meals, and the sound of the wind rustling through the pines.
L'Orage drew deep inspiration from the breathtaking natural landscape surrounding them. The rolling hills, dry stone walls, and crisp mountain air became catalysts for the music, infusing the album with an organic and atmospheric quality. The result is an elegant fusion of rhythms, melodies, and ballads that evoke the magic and mystery of nature itself. Each composition on Water Tower tells its own story, like a landscape of mountains, lakes, and rivers, evoking feelings of gentle melancholy, warm memories, and the crisp, invigorating chill of a January sun.
The Sound of L'Orage: Cohesion and Freedom
Over the course of eight years, L'Orage has honed its sound, moving freely through the intricate paths of jazz and expanding their creative expression with each release. On Water Tower, the quartet finds a perfect balance between freedom and cohesion, staying true to their organic approach while exploring new sonic territories.
The album’s arrangements flow seamlessly, showcasing the interplay between the individual members. Ganesh Geymeier’s tenor saxophone breathes life and lyricism into the music, while Robin Girod’s guitar adds texture, warmth, and versatility. The rhythm section, made up of Nelson Schaer’s intuitive drumming and Fabien Iannone’s resonant bass lines, provides a steady foundation that allows the group to move freely while maintaining a magnetic sense of unity.
From the very first track, the album sets a unique tone, inviting listeners into an ethereal atmosphere. Water Tower builds on delicate rhythms and elongated phases, crafting a rare narrative of a complete musical journey. It’s an album that demands to be experienced in its entirety, as the shifting moods and landscapes of sound intertwine to create a deeply immersive experience.
Limited Edition and Digital Release
Water Tower will be available on limited edition LP (only 150 copies) and digital formats, offering fans an opportunity to own a physical piece of this remarkable work. The album will be released through Orage Records, continuing the band’s tradition of high-quality, finely crafted music. Fans can expect a dynamic listening experience that will transport them into the heart of Switzerland’s majestic natural beauty.
Live Performances – Fall 2024 Tour
In support of the album, L'Orage will be embarking on a European tour this fall, showcasing their new music live. Catch the band at the following dates:
- September 28 – Le Singe, Bienne
- October 09 – Café de la Plage, Geneva
- October 10 – Waxy Bar, Zurich
- October 11 – Werft Proberaume, Lucerne
- October 12 – La Spirale, Fribourg
- October 13 – Le Bout du Monde, Vevey
- November 02 – L’Ecurie, Genève
- January 16 – Winter Jazz Festival, Bern
- March 22 – KVO, Neuchâtel
- April 09 – Bird’s Eye, Basel
- May 03 – Stanser Musictage, Stans (TBC)
A New Chapter for L'Orage
Water Tower represents the culmination of years of growth, collaboration, and exploration for L'Orage. With this album, the band has truly captured the essence of their sound—a mix of jazz, freedom, and the spirit of nature. It’s a work that reflects both their personal journey as musicians and their deep connection to the world around them.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to L'Orage’s music, Water Tower promises to be a deeply rewarding listen, transporting you to the heart of Switzerland’s natural beauty through the power of sound.
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