Vienna to Hollywood: Impressions of E.W. Korngold & Max Steiner

Peter Erskine and his crew tip their hat to the work of two Viennese composers, E.W. Korngold and Max Steiner, and it makes for a diverse and intricate 12 songs.

The energetic "March Of The Merry Men" starts the listen with Erskine's marching band style drumming alongside Thomas Gansch's vibrant trumpet, and "Sterbelied" follows with Danny Grissett's gentle piano and Fabricio Pereira's calm bass setting an intimate mood.

Further along, "Romance" welcomes Flip Phillip's dreamy vibes amid Herwig Gradischnig's flowing sax for much grace, while "Belle Waiting" benefits from Andreas Varady's meticulous guitar work via the rich album highlight.

Near the end, the animated "A Summer Place" blends the frisky percussion and stylish rhythm section with soft melodies, and "Ghost Coda" exits with Alyssa Park's gripping violin alongside a distinct mood of mystery.

An extremely involved affair that takes on a cinematic appeal, Erskine and company make every moment memorable thanks to the improvised jazz formula.