The story of this band began in August 2024, when Jan invited me to a concert featuring his trio, ‘POLYCRISIS.’ As part of a festival of free improvised music in Graz, Austria, the three of us played a memorable 45-minute set—without rehearsing. While we were performing, I could sense a wonderful and very harmonious sense of ease among the three of us, as well as creativity that spurred each other on and a sense of equality—which isn’t something to be taken for granted in bands with such different generations and levels of experience.

For me, there was an almost unspoken understanding between us from the very beginning about what the music could be—and what it shouldn’t be; always a sign of good chemistry within a band.

Perhaps a few words about my two young colleagues, guitarist Kenji Herbert and drummer Jan Samson Krizanic: Kenji is of Austro-Japanese descent and grew up in Japan. After studying at Berklee College of Music, he first moved to New York City for 10 years and then to Vienna. Like all great musicians, Kenji is extremely versatile and flexible, which makes each of his ensembles sound great. In the fall of 2025, he deservedly won the Austrian Jazz Award for his latest trio album.

I’d had my eye on Jan for quite some time. From the very beginning, I was drawn to his artistic openness, which also inspires him to collaborate with visual artists and actors. But of course, it’s his outstanding drumming, combined with an almost carefree street vibe, that makes him so appealing to me. Throughout, he always maintains both prudence and the courage to pause at times or even radically change the groove. This gives our trio an incredible dynamic—ranging from very soft and delicate to a musical explosion.”

Heinrich von Kalnein (Natango Music)