Werner Pirchner, the Austrian jazz innovator often hailed as the Frank Zappa of Central Europe, presents "Ein halbes Doppelalbum," a captivating journey through his unique musical landscape. Released on April 10, 2015, under the Monkey.. label, this album is a testament to Pirchner's eclectic genius, blending jazz with a myriad of influences and a touch of the absurd.
Spanning 46 minutes, the album is a collection of 24 tracks, each a distinct piece of musical storytelling. From the playful "Lasset uns singen" to the provocative "Lied über nicht gesellschaftsfähige Tätigkeiten," Pirchner's compositions are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining. The album's title track, "Ein halbes Kilogramm Brot," and the humorous "Bescheidene, in Mittelkärntner Mundart abgegebene Erklärung arbeitstechnischer Vorgänge" showcase Pirchner's knack for blending humor and social commentary with his jazz roots.
Pirchner's signature style, characterized by its complexity and wit, is evident throughout the album. Tracks like "Das steinerne Gesicht" and "Ein ungewöhnlicher Bluestext oder das Zusammentreffen zweier nicht vereinbarer Welten" highlight his ability to fuse disparate musical elements into a cohesive whole. The album also features tracks in various languages, including German and the Kärntner dialect, adding a layer of cultural richness to the listening experience.
"Ein halbes Doppelalbum" is not just a jazz album; it's a celebration of musical diversity and innovation. Whether you're a longtime fan of Werner Pirchner or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling exploration of the boundaries of jazz and beyond.