Wendy Eisenberg

Whether performing solo, alongside musicians such as Ches Smith, David Grubbs and Caroline Davis, or as a member of the Bill Orcutt Guitar Quartet – Eisenberg moves effortlessly between free improvisation, prog-rock aggression, fingerstyle picking, post-bop, indie rock and classic singer-songwriter elements. Sometimes a particular project is dedicated to a distinct facet; in other contexts, Eisenberg combines different elements.

Earlier this year, the album *Wendy Eisenberg* was released, which places the focus firmly on songwriting. Thought-provoking lyrics, at times driven by probing questions, are embedded in forms that are as elegant as they are harmonically sophisticated and melodically refined.

On first listen, it sounds like pop music, but from the second listen onwards, the ten tracks reveal their complexity. For the album’s European premiere, Eisenberg will be accompanied by drummer Ryan Sawyer – who has previously performed at the Jazzfest Berlin as a member of ensembles led by Nate Wooley – violinist and pedal steel virtuoso Mari Rubio, who also performs under the pseudonym more eaze, and, especially for this performance, bassist Nick Dunston.

The album exudes a beguiling cheerfulness; its melodious tracks are full of surprising twists and turns. Some songs draw on classic honky-tonk forms, whilst others allude to the sophisticated sound of Laurel Canyon pop. Jazz provides the foundation upon which Eisenberg’s gentle voice weaves the criss-crossing melodies into the soundscape with unfailing tonal precision.

Line-up

• Wendy Eisenberg – guitar, vocals
• Mari Rubio – violin
• Nick Dunston – electric bass
• Ryan Sawyer – drums

23:45

Jam Session #1 featuring musicians from the Jazzfest Berlin programme

As was the case last year, the jam sessions at Quasimodo are intended to revive a long-standing tradition of the Jazzfest Berlin. Musicians from the festival programme are invited to come together late into the night in completely new line-ups and improvise together in a relaxed atmosphere.