Enjott Schneider - Enjott Schneider: Clair-Obscur – Colors of Saxophones (LP)

Enjott Schneider's "Clair-Obscur – Colors of Saxophones" is a captivating exploration of the saxophone's versatility, released on January 18, 2019, under the wergo label. Spanning 52 minutes, this album is a journey through a diverse range of musical styles and emotions, showcasing Schneider's exceptional compositional prowess.

The album opens with a poignant tribute, "Cri Muet (In Memoriam 13–11–2015)," followed by a suite inspired by Johann Sebastian Bach, "As Times Go Bye." This suite, divided into four movements—Prelude, Courante, Sarabande, and Gigue—demonstrates Schneider's ability to blend classical structures with contemporary sensibilities.

The album then shifts gears with "Pavane. Variationen über einen Tanz aus El Maestro von Luis de Milán," a set of variations on a dance from Luis de Milán's "El Maestro," highlighting the saxophone's lyrical and expressive qualities.

The second half of the album, "Berlin Punk," is a high-energy, five-movement suite that pays homage to the raw and rebellious spirit of punk music. Each movement—Spiked Saxes, Moon over Alexanderplatz, Police Rats, Toxic Love, and Fun Punk—offers a unique perspective on the genre, from the aggressive to the melancholic to the playful.

Throughout "Clair-Obscur – Colors of Saxophones," Enjott Schneider's innovative use of the saxophone, combined with his rich harmonic language and rhythmic vitality, creates a compelling and engaging listening experience. This album is a testament to Schneider's artistic vision and his ability to push the boundaries of contemporary classical music.