Muriel Grossmann - Devotion 2LP

The word "Devotion," the title of saxophonist / composer Muriel Grossmann's new album, is defined by Websters as "religious fervor, piety," or "an act of prayer or private worship." Further, it carries "the act of dedicating something to a cause, enterprise, or activity; the fact or state of being ardently dedicated and loyal." Grossmann's music richly illustrates both shades of the word's meaning. Devotion is a dedicated aural engagement with extremely talented musicians. It reflects a deep spirituality in composition, expression discovery through kaleidoscopic, 21st century jazz.

Grossmann was born in Paris, raised in Austria, and began classical flute studies at five. She didn't begin playing the saxophone until she was 21, and for years, only the alto and soprano. She taught herself by playing along with records by Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderley and Gerry Mulligan. After picking up the tenor years later she immersed herself into the music of Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Stanley Turrentine and Illinois Jacquet, all of whom influenced the soul jazz era. She embodied those influences as signifiers for one of the most identifying aspects of Grossmann's sound: The reliance on groove. After completing formal music studies, she played and toured with various funk, R&B, world music, and jazz groups. Grossmann moved to Spain in 2002, and began leading her own bands.