'Transglobal alpine jazz‘ is the name of the game on the new Kerber Brothers Alpinefusion album! Brass instruments, guitar and crisp percussion will make you believe you are in the midst of a South American fiesta. Then, suddenly, you’ll be surprised by a septuple meter yodel, accompanied by zither and alphorn in an earthy, bluesy style. Now the archaic alpine Scherrzither joins in. The dulcimer transforms to a Persian santur. The ländler starts enigmatically with alphorn and Indian transverse flute, then picks up speed as the soloists switch to trumpet and saxophone. Even an accomplished organ piece by Bach is divided up among the quintet. Even though all pieces have been composed by Andreas Kerber, each musician adds his personal note during the improvisations.
The roots of the three original Kerber Brothers are strong and deep: Together with their parents they were the Allgäu folk music family and performed together on stage from the moment they could walk. To combine that traditional heritage with today’s sound requires an almost acrobatic balancing act between front-line music and tradition. To hold this balance without drifting off into kitsch is a commendable achievement and not easily duplicated by others.
Their individuality makes the Kerber Brothers extremely memorable. After all, there are none with whom these extraordinary musicians could be confused! If you’re looking for something different, something really off the wall instead of boring mainstream, then this is the album for you.