World Traveller

A good five years ago alto saxophonist Max Merseny had a sensational debut at age 23. His first album 'Thank Ya' All' was presented and praised in the major German press, and nominated for the Jazz Echo prize, as was the follow-up album 'Everlasting' (comparable to the US Grammy). Something of a German David Sanborn, Max Merseny revitalised American Soul jazz of the Eighties, modernized with elements of Rhythm & Blues and hip-Hop - his other two musical passions. And this with a virtuosity and a groove which nobody had expected from a German. His CD 'Word Traveller' follows this line rigorously, this time with the help of keyboard player Federico Gonzàlez Pena, who came on board as producer, co-author of three titles and as ingenious sound creator on diverse keyboards and synthesizers. The group is completed by well-versed guitarist Ferdinand Kirner, plus guests such as Grammy nominated rapper Phonte, vocalist Tami Samantha Hayes, guitarists Mike Scott and Wah Wah Watson, percussionist Alfredo Mojica and drummer Gene Lake. Rapper/turntablist Roger Reckless is at the turntables.