VI.BE

Jasmien Geijsels (piano) and Pierre-Antoine Savoyat (flugelhorn) met during their jazz studies at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels and, together with a former drummer, they formed a close trio, connecting instantly. In this period the foundation of Elsiris was laid and in 2020 they got selected for the semi-finals of the Jazz contest Mechelen. Two years later there was a shift with Élie Goulème taking over the drum seat. Again the chemistry between them was immediate. Words weren’t necessary to convey and shape the musical ideas they were able to create instantly. In August 2022 they hit the studio to record their debut album 'Imprints' with renowned pianist and composer Diederik Wissels as their producer. The album has been released on the 10th of November 2023 with Dutch record label SONNA Records. In March 2024 Elsiris played at the preliminary round of B-Jazz International Contest.

With each song on the album, Elsiris leaves an imprint on its listener. Some compositions carry the name of a fictional character, who have their own layered personality that continues to evolve just like a human of flesh and blood. Do they remain a mystery or can they be fathomed over time? Other compositions embody a deep connection with nature, the feeling of being a part of something bigger, as well as a connection between people.

Elsiris had the privilege to have Diederik Wissels and Tsai-Wen Hui join them as guest musicians. Diederik Wissels’ electronic soundscapes adds an extra layer of depth to Helena II while vocalist Tsai-Wen Hui transforms Mathilde and lures you in the story with her voice.

Elsiris’ repertoire primarily features original compositions by the band’s founder and pianist, Jasmien. Her melancholic, sometimes fragile, melodies and skilful use of space and silence transport the listener through a captivating musical journey that transcends time. However, her sound can also be piercingly powerful when the moment calls for it. Pierre-Antoine Savoyat’s warm sound on the flugelhorn in combination with his unique electronic effects create the most beautiful colours, soundscapes and depth. Élie Goulème’s drumming complements the band’s sound, offering subtle as well as solid and lively rhythms. Their music is influenced by ECM artists such as Tord Gustavsen, Susanne Abbuehl, Areni Agbabian, Stefano Battaglia, and many more. Inspiration is drawn from a deep connection with nature, between people and the feeling being part of something bigger.

Jazz&Mo’ “Dit is zeer toegankelijke en oprechte muziek, een zoektocht naar schoonheid, zonder technische heksentoeren uit te halen. (…) Bij momenten denk je aan de soundtrack van een mooie, traag evoluerende film – volledig in tegenstelling met onze jachtige tijden. (…) het leuke van deze plaat: ze staat als een veilige rots in de branding.”

ProgJazz: “Despite the limitations of a trio using only three acoustic instruments, Elsiris offers a rich palette of mood and melodies. … The trio’s tight performance and mastery of dynamic range make for an organic and captivating musical experience.”

Luminous Dash: “…zoveel pracht mag niet onbekend blijven. Op haar beste momenten is Imprints echter een prachtvoorbeeld van wat voor weelde je kan creëren met slechts drie muzikanten.”

JazzFlits: “Elsiris maakt van de sounds gemakkelijke, toegankelijke, beeldende en romantische muziek van een buitengewone schoonheid.”

Diederik Wissels: “A marvellous journey into a wide open space full of colours and images, and silence as powerful as music itself. Profound emotions will accompany the far away dreamscapes. It is a completely mature and original project and among the most beautiful music these days available.”

Jazzism: “De muziek van dit album is ingetogen en verstild, soms met een ondertoon van immanente treurigheid. Denk ook aan ECM-artiesten als Susanne Abbuehl en Tord Gustavsen.”

JazzNu: “Een perfecte, trage verstilling van tijd (…) Voor yoga, meditatie of directe verstilling is dit album een vriend. Er is mysterie, melancholie en een verweving van de klanken van de drie instrumenten die bij beluistering kalmte teweeg brengen. Het album nodigt je uit in de bubbel van de muziek te stappen en de boel de boel te laten.”