Motýľ & Rothenstein: Heavy Weight Jazz Meeting

Michal Motýľ (bass trombone) and Erik Rothenstein (baritone & alto saxophone) present an unusual project that combines deep-sounding instruments – the album HEAVY WEIGHT JAZZ MEETING.

THE PROJECT IS CHARACTERIZED BY:

The search for a shared „heavyweight“ sound of the bass trombone and baritone saxophone.
Long-term collaboration & original compositions.
The tension between a strict harmonic structure and the freedom of free improvisation.

Alongside its strong jazz foundation, the work of Michal Motýľ and Erik Rothenstein draws inspiration from world music and incorporates complex, odd-meter rhythms, creating an authentic and genre-open dialogue.

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A major role in the project is also played by a fascination with the sound of deep wind instruments, which here step up as equal melodic and dramatic voices. Erik Rothenstein’s baritone saxophone and Michal Motýľ’s bass trombone create a unique sonic identity for the project, built on the contrast of power, lyricism, and delicate improvisational work with tone color.

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An essential part of their musical language is collective improvisation, an openness to ever-changing musical situations, and the search for a shared sonic space where composition meets instant creation. The project delivers an authentic statement on contemporary jazz that transcends genre boundaries and stands on the strength of collective collaboration.

The new album features nine original tracks by both protagonists. Musically, it moves primarily within the jazz idiom, but with a significantly expanded aesthetic palette. Various approaches and forms emerge – from odd-meter rhythmic grooves and more lyrical compositions to elements of free jazz and open improvisation. World music is also a strong source of inspiration, reflecting in the rhythmic structures, colorful textures, and overall openness of the musical material.

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