Andrea Glockner - Across the Lines (2025)

A heterogeneous ensemble in terms of experience and nationality of the artists (of French, Italian, Dominican, Swiss, Chilean and American origins), born from their meeting at the National Jazz Academy in Siena (Italy), which, as the title of the project itself states, wants to testify to the ability of music to overcome borders of any kind, be they cultural, linguistic, physical or mental, in favour of a common and shared expressive language, in this case a jazz-sound that links tradition and modernity, with influences from rock, funk, hip-hop and free improvisation.

“Across the Lines” was born from a meeting at the Italian National Academy of Jazz in Siena, a truly international encounter as the musicians’ nationalities and origins are French, Italian, Dominican, Swiss, Chilean, and American! The name of the project evokes the crossing of lines, not only geographical but also cultural and musical. It symbolizes music’s ability to transcend boundaries – whether physical or mental – when they become barriers to expression and unity. The quartet offers jazz at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, enriched by diverse influences such as rock and funk for their energy, free improvisation for spaces of exploration, and hip-hop for its fluidity and lightness. I would like to emphasize the exceptional bond between the musicians, the obvious joy of playing together, and the desire to share. Preparing and recording this album alongside Silvia, Santiago, and Alessandro has been a true source of happiness. I have never met people with such big hearts and such a deep respect for music. With them, everything feels easier. I extend a huge thank you to them for their friendship, patience, trust, and deep camaraderie. For some tracks on this album, I was seeking an energy and atmosphere similar to those of John Coltrane’s quintet with Pharoah Sanders, and it is with immense joy and deep respect that I invited Joseph Bowie, a key musical figure in my life, a musical grandfather. We met two years ago when I was studying at Siena Jazz. Playing alongside him during the last two days of recording revealed to me what it truly means to play from the heart. I warmly thank Joseph for his participation, his boundless energy, and his positive vibes. The recording took place at Griffin studio under ideal conditions, where we enjoyed an atmosphere of trust and creative freedom. Today, I am excited to share the stage with my friends across France, Italy, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and far beyond the borders!
Andrea Glockner

Tracklist:

01. Tiatilae
02. Improvisation 1
03. Swiss Interval
04. Choise
05. Em'
06. Improvisation 2
07. Recovery
08. Playground