Debut album from Michael Friedinger

Hailing from Stuttgart in Germany, Michael Friedinger is a multi-talented musician known for his skill as a pianist, keyboard player, composer, arranger and producer. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of genres including smooth jazz, funk, gospel and Brazilian and Cuban influences, he crafts his own unique sound that’s been winning over audiences worldwide. Influenced by artists such as George Duke, Jeff Lorber and Russell Ferrante, he’s recently embarked on a solo journey to share his music with the world.

In January, he made his debut with the single “Junior,” an upbeat instrumental jam that offered a tantalising glimpse into his musical universe. Building on this initial success, he followed it up with singles two and three and now brings us his latest release with his debut full-length record as a solo artist titled Between Chairs.

The twelve-track instrumental album offers the full-scope of the artist’s broad and diverse sonic vision, all written, recorded and produced by Michael and featuring a host of his favourite musicians who add their own musical flair to Michael’s compositions including saxophonist Arno Haas, guitarist Nico Schliemann, bass player Ben Jud and drummer Stephan Schuchardt. Distilling his sound into a cohesive listening experience, the album flows across various styles to deliver a full representation of his charming sound.

Opened by “The Swuffle,” the LP kicks off with lively drums and vibrant brass tones capped by slick electric guitar licks. Riding through a bouncy rhythm driven by pumping bass notes and intricate percussive taps, the colourful arrangement develops with the energising guitar notes cut with piano leads, resulting in a joyous jam of rock-tinged uptempo jazz.

“Cool Breeze” follows with a smooth vibe of piano, shuffling drums, pulsing bass notes and a dreamy blend of shimmering guitar and piquant synth texture. Playful piano plinks snake throughout as various instruments apply vivid hues to the musical canvas to craft an upbeat jam that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

On “Isipisi,” Michael injects infectious energy with a beautiful saxophone-led piece where the dancing sax notes tumble over the grooving rhythmic backdrop. Peppered with exquisite leads from electric keys and dazzling electric guitar work, it’s a truly enjoyable bop that’s impossible not to love.

Other highlights on the record include previously released single “Time Together With You,” a stunning hook-driven track that bends from the free-flowing piano focused moments to the instantly memorable chorus sections of silky sax lines, all wrapped up in a head-bobbing groove. “In Flight” bursts open with a bright run of lofty notes before setting up a lively rhythm of pattering drums. Delicate keys dance above the pacy energy, joined by a dash of synth tones before floating sax precedes a shift to a moment of blissful and atmospheric keys over hushed cymbals and soft bass lines before rising back to the grooving energy.

Michael’s debut single “Junior” serves up an utterly irresistible collision of punchy rhythmic energy, instantly memorable melodic leads and sensational lead flute performance. It’s an uplifting jam brimming with funky vibes that rises and falls with elegant writing and stabbed rhythms while the instrumentation glides together in truly remarkable connection.

Closing the record with “You Are My Home,” Michael slows things down with graceful piano work, gradually building with gentle bass notes and mellow percussion. Showcasing his composition and arrangement skills in a tender, stripped back setting, it’s the perfect conclusion to his incredible debut album. Between Chairs presents and engaging listening experience from start to finish, revealing the expansive talents of Michael Friedinger as a musician and the depth of his creativity as a composer.

Listen to Between Chairs below