CD Feature/ Henschkeschlott: "Cafe Thiossane"

If you get your information mainly from reading magazines, you would have to conclude that “lounge music” was one of those short-lived trends that brought fourth one or two seminally selling albums and the usual collecton of “Chill Out Hits”. You would be wrong. Even small-city clubs are still grooving to St. Germain’s “Tourist” and the Cafe del Mar is still open.

That’s because “Lounge” is by definition “Utility Music” and has been around for ages. It’s a simple fact that there are moments in your life when you want your music to be strong enough to bring you closer to the girl you’re dining with and unobtrusive enough to make her want to listen to what you’re saying, instead of what’s playing on the stereo – medieval kings knew that just as well (forget about the stereo for a second). What made most tracks such an easy prey for criticism was that, just like film scores, most of them didn’t work once they were left to their own devices. That’s where “Cafe Thiossane” kicks in. Placed neatly between Jazz and the Soundtrack to your last espresso, this could well be the “Kind of Blue” of the Lounge Generation: Deep enough to convince purists, relaxed enough to brighten up the bartender’s face. Somewhat cool and clinical beats contrast nicely with warm keys, soulful sax and frisky flutes and while the coolness and ambiance of the great virtuosos is perfectly present, there’s no need for strenous solos. There’s an unusual amount of diversity and melodic inventiveness that’s rare in this business and the title track even manages to add some African flavours without sounding bland.

As always, some will claim that the world doesn’t need this. They’re right. But then, the world doesn’t need red whine, tarte flambe or tiramisu either. If you prefer living your life according to what feels good to you, instead of what the magazine’s write, you should give “Cafe Thiossane” a listen.

Homepage: Ozella Lounge
Homepage: Volker Schlott
Homepage: Reinmar Henschke