The band leader, pianist and bass player from Germany's most famous hot jazz band, the Frankfurt Barrelhouse Jazz Band have, in addition to their band work, joined together to form the Reimer von Essen Trio.
They are oriented towards little-noticed sectors of traditional jazz:
- the classic trio numbers of New Orleans Jazz
- virtuoso, soloist instrumental arrangements
- fringe areas between blues and old jazz
- vocal numbers from vaudeville tradition.
This genre ranges from bubbling exuberance to deep earnestness woven by the trio's experienced musicians into a programme that remains as concert long in the memory of listeners. The expert moderation of the bandleader gives the renditions another unmistakable and charming touch.
Jan Luley on piano captivates with his own blend of New Orleans Jazz and blues - a musician who never fails to spark the flame. His occasional solos add extra zest to the programme.
Cliff Soden plays bass with such commendable beat sureness that it made him a much-wanted musician by every professional band in Europe until he docked at the Barrelhouse harbour. From New Orleans slap bass to walking bass in the Basie tradition is his depth of style - his fun in playing is highly infectious.
Reimer von Essen on clarinet is always committed to the exemplary New Orleans greats. His deep blues solos enjoy special standing. On the sax he sometimes enters turbulent waters. His vocals spice the evening, very often suggestive numbers with mimic in full.
The versatility of the three musicians, their palpable pleasure in jazz and their unconventional show talent transform a chamber music line-up into a stage ensemble that guarantees a very special jazz evening: jazz as cabaret.