Julie Sassoon/Lothar Ohlmeier/Mia Ohlmeier

Musical families are no novelty; neither are family bands. Yet this two CD set allows us to hear the slight redefinition of one clan’s as progeny adds burgeoning talent to an established group.British pianist Julie Sassoon, who composed all 13 tracks here, has lived for many years in Berlin with her German husband tenor and soprano saxophonist/bass clarinetist Lothar Ohlmeier. Working together or singly in other groups, they’ve been praised for their sophisticated music that stretch conventions while avoiding sonic tumult. As a duo they aptly demonstrate that skill with a set of languid, meditative and impressionistic performances recorded during a live concert in Regensburg that make up the first CD.

Recently the duo has expanded to a trio, as Mia Ohlmeier. their 19-year-old daughter has become an  accomplished drummer. The second CD, recorded at the Berliner Philharmonie was at that point the largest venue at which the three played together. Perhaps it’s because of Mia’s rhythmic instrument or perhaps her youthful exuberance but the five trio tunes appear more energetic. Sonic provocation is mixed with the pastoral themes. Sassoon’s textures are sometimes more vigorous as she hums along with her thoughtful keyboard improvisations, and Ohlmeier more often than elsewhere sticks to lower tones as he projects thick tenor saxophone slurs and sinewy bass clarinet smears .

This is a notable introduction to the group. Future releases will hopefully fully define the partnership as will discs with Mia sans famille.

— Ken Waxman

Track Listing: CD1: 1.  Cloud 2.  To Be 3.  This One’s A Boy 4.  Shifting 5.  Coming Home 6.  Land Of Shadows 7.  Baghdad Cafe 8.  Somnia In B-Flat CD2: 1. Shifting 2. To Be 3. Coming Home 4. Land Of Shadows 5. Expectations

Personnel: Lothar Ohlmeier (tenor and soprano saxophones and bass clarinet); Julie Sassoon (piano) and Mia Ohlmeier (drums [CD2]}

–for The Whole Note December 2024/January 2025