Nighthawks

Nighthawks
Paris - Dakar

The title of Nighthawks' new concert programme inevitably evokes the Paris-Dakar Rally. Yet Paris and Dakar are merely another set of coordinates in the band's musical cosmos. Nighthawks' music travels across the African continent, drawing inspiration from Brazil and the Balkans as it has in the past.

Five musicians embark on a journey with open ears and hearts. This journey constantly surprises with sublime ambivalence: Nighthawks songs are readily understood yet offer depth. The band effortlessly dispels the misconception that quality music must perpetually challenge the listener. Rather than intellectual complexity, Nighthawks offer an almost taboo-free, all-encompassing musicality - with subtly conveyed humour.

This musical formula has been unparalleled for over 20 years. Jazz rock or rock jazz? Nighthawks' compositions unite what belongs together in art and life: memories, experiences, and cherished things define the present state and future of their music. Herb Alpert with his eternally youthful, triumphant Tijuana Brass benevolently presides over "Paris Dakar". The great Cameroonian musician Manu Dibango is honoured, and painter Gerhard Richter serves as a figurative patron to myriad layers of futuristic sound. Amid these creative spirits, Nighthawks declare their new position "Paris Dakar" - open to innovation and flexible.

Line-up:
Reiner Winterschladen (trumpet), Jürgen Dahmen (keys), Jörg Lehnardt (guitar), Dal Martino (bass), Thomas Alkier (drums)