Andy Sheppard Trio (GB/ITA/FR)

Saxophonist and composer Andy Sheppard is one of the leading figures in contemporary European jazz. The music for this trio, featuring Rita Marcotulli on piano and Michel Benita on double bass, was composed during the first months of 2021—a period in which Sheppard was able to devote himself almost entirely to writing new music.

Michel Benita’s distinctive approach to the double bass has earned him a reputation as one of the most original and versatile bassists on the international jazz scene. Acclaimed pianist Rita Marcotulli, meanwhile, has long been recognized as an icon of Italian jazz. In recent years, Benita has become Sheppard’s bassist of choice, appearing on the saxophonist’s last three ECM albums, while Marcotulli has maintained a long-standing duo partnership with Sheppard, touring extensively across Europe since the release of their album On the Edge of a Perfect Moment.