Lumens by Nicole Johänntgen and Jack DeSalvo

"I have been completely bowled over by this album since it arrived for review a few weeks ago. A real gem of a recording by two musicians that I had not previously encountered, but whose compatibility and empathy seemingly knows no bounds." – Nick Lea, Jazz Views

Lumens is an important recording by Nicole Johänntgen and Jack DeSalvo, two composer/instrumentalists who met in Matt Lavelle’s 12 Houses orchestra in New York.
The album features alto saxophone and guitar in gorgeous soundscapes as well as simple, deeply felt songs.

“Nicole has something very special in her playing – a big and generous heart. She plays like her life depends on it and draws anyone within range into the center of her music. An exceptional energy!” - Dave Liebman

“Nicole is a truly spirited and vibrant player who has a true and pure artistic integrity. Obviously music means everything to her and this translates to me and surely to many more people.” - Lew Soloff

Zürich based German saxophonist Nicole Johänntgen is ubiquitous at European festivals and clubs whether with her long time ensemble Nicole Jo, Henry - her New Orleans group, her quartet and so many other projects including Sisters In Jazz featuring luminaries Cæcilie Norby and Rita Marcotulli. She has recently recorded her solo saxophone album. Nicole is also the founder of SOFIA, an international program to support female jazz musicians in the field of musical improvisation and self-management.

“Using both acoustic and electric instruments, DeSalvo demonstrates technique, intelligence and imagination with a broad streak of lyricism and passion in what amounts to one of the better guitar voices to be heard in improvised music these days.” – Cadence

"Guitarist Jack DeSalvo stands out for his angular harmonies played with his instrument" - Musiczoom.it

“banjo player Jack DeSalvo uncorks a salvo of twangs as if Earl Scruggs has pushed his way into a Count Basie jam.” – NYC Jazz Record.

DeSalvo, hailed in THE WIRE magazine as “masterful”, played with Ronald Shannon Jackson, Sumari, and D3 as well as many other important figures in the jazz and improvised music worlds.

JACK DeSALVO developed his extraordinary guitar style from a deep immersion into jazz, classical guitar and his own prolific compositional output. He has studied with Bill Connors, Leonid Bolotine, Ariada Mikéshina, George Russell and at Berklee. He is a professional musician, composer, recording artist and record producer for Unseen Rain Records. He has toured the world with many jazz greats.

jackdesalvo.com