Immanuel Wilkins Quartet

We are used to seeing all sorts of things from jazz trumpeters – the orgiastic performances of Hannibal Marvin Peterson or the kamikaze jazz of Terumasa Hino, who often verged on the comatose, are unforgettable. But even the alto saxophone, which is otherwise not particularly prone to ecstasy, has surprises in store, because no one currently plays this woodwind instrument with such energy and courage to push boundaries as Immanuel Wilkins.

The 29-year-old cannot hide the fact that he gained his first musical experience in churches. Indeed, Immanuel Wilkins' concerts have something of the intensity of American church services. The focus is on the lively exchange between the four members of his band: pianist Micah Thomas, bassist Ryoma Takenaga, drummer Kweku Sumbry – and Immanuel Wilkins. Although the stylistic basis is in constant flux, it seems logical in itself, caught between chamber music, post-bop and impressionistic moods.