Just like free jazz in the sixties and seventies, “Austerity… and what about rage?” is a cry of absolute rage against the current politico-economic context. As Manuel points out: «Free jazz was born in the US in a very specific socio-cultural historical context. But essentially, it’s a musical form that can have meaning in any society in any age. It expresses the transformation of the world around us, highlighting the gentleness, fear, chaos or rage that this awakes in us. In that respect, libertarian jazz can take on its full meaning in today’s Europe.”

The album features compositions based on what Manuel Hermia calls rajazz, a melodic-harmonic principle inspired by Indian ragas. Other compositions flirt along the banks of jazz with Indian, Arabic, African and almost Contemporary Music sounds. The emotional palette ranges from the most gentle, “Fascinus”, and deepe to the wildest and most enraged such as “Austerity” and “Infobesity”.

A trio that is anchored in tradition and open to every influence, lovers of risks but always accessible; the Manuel Hermia Trio always strives to honour the libertarian music that is, at its heart, jazz. Jazz? Of course. But more than that, gripping short stories.

The sax and flute player Manuel Hermia was recently nominated Best Jazz Artist in Belgium in 2011.

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