Introduction
Laurent Bardainne is a French Jazz saxophonist, composer, and producer who has been making waves in the Jazz world for over a decade. He is known for his eclectic style that combines traditional Jazz with elements of Funk, Hip-hop, and Electronic music. In this article, we will explore the unique soundscapes of Laurent Bardainne and how he has evolved as a musician over the years.
Early Years
Laurent Bardainne was born in France in 1982 and began playing the saxophone at the age of 9. He was introduced to Jazz music by his father who was a big fan of classic Jazz artists like Duke Ellington and Charlie Parker. As a teenager, Bardainne was heavily influenced by modern Jazz artists like John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Sonny Rollins.
The Formation of Poni Hoax
In 2001, Bardainne co-founded the band Poni Hoax, which has been described as a blend of new wave, rock, and electro-pop. The band went on to release four studio albums and gained a cult following in France and other parts of Europe. Bardainne’s saxophone playing was a key component of the band’s sound, and his virtuosic solos became a signature of their live shows.
Solo Career
In 2016, Bardainne released his first solo album, titled Tigre d’Eau Douce. The album was a departure from his work with Poni Hoax and showcased his Jazz roots. Tigre d’Eau Douce featured a mix of original compositions and covers of classic Jazz tunes like Thelonious Monk’s “Round Midnight” and Duke Ellington’s “Caravan.”
The Creation of Tiger Super 8
After the success of his solo album, Bardainne formed the band Tiger Super 8, which featured musicians from France, Japan, and Burkina Faso. The band’s first album, called Silk, was released in 2018 and showcased Bardainne’s love for Funk and Electronic music. The album was well-received by critics and cemented Bardainne’s reputation as a versatile musician who was not afraid to experiment with different genres.
Conclusion
Laurent Bardainne is a Jazz virtuoso who has been pushing the boundaries of the genre for over a decade. His unique soundscapes are a blend of traditional Jazz with elements of Funk, Hip-hop, and Electronic music. Bardainne’s evolution as a musician has been marked by his willingness to experiment with different genres and to collaborate with musicians from different parts of the world. His solo work and his collaborations with Poni Hoax and Tiger Super 8 have solidified his place in the French Jazz scene and have made him a musician to watch in the coming years.
References
- https://www.laurentbardainne.com/
- https://www.allmusic.com/artist/laurent-bardainne-mn0002327757/biography
- https://www.francemusique.com/jazz/laurent-bardainne-cette-musique-qui-lui-tient-tete-39432