In November 2023, the Julien Tassin quartet released their acclaimed album "Great Expectations" on Werf Records and Igloo Records. The European press warmly received the album, earning it 4 stars in publications such as Jazz Magazine (FR), Written In Music (NL), Knack Focus (BE), De Standaard (BE), Jazz & Mo (BE), Le Soir (BE), L’Echo (BE), L’Avenir (BE), Jazz Thing (DE), Märkische Allgemeine Zeitung (DE), and more.

Similar to classical music, many pieces in the album consist of several movements, each conveying distinct moods and atmospheres. The music's unexpected twists and turns align with an overarching theme, where each song tells a tale transitioning effortlessly between various grooves while maintaining a cinematic undertone. The quartet's strength lies in their ability to blend ample space for improvisation and interaction, evident in both studio and live performances. Tassin's fascination with blues permeates the album, resulting in an exhilarating combination of blues, jazz, and rock. The electric guitar and trumpet combination adds an original and powerful dimension, creating a collision between lyricism and raw sounds.

The album's title, "Great Expectations," holds a significant story. Originally planned as a collaboration with trumpet player Ron Miles, the trio's performance at Bozar, Brussels, took a different turn due to Miles' unexpected passing. Undeterred by this loss, Tassin continued to compose music for the project, ultimately inviting American trumpet player Jason Palmer to join the trio, leading to the recording of the new album.

In live performances, "Great Expectations" features Julien Tassin on guitar, Nicolas Thys on double bass, Dré Pallemaerts on drums, and American-Eritrean trumpeter Hermon Mehari. Audiences can expect a fresh and vibrant sound, showcasing the quartet's endless creativity.

“Seven tracks full of meet-ups & discoveries. Highly recommended!” - Written in Music

 

“Tassin merges scenes and atmospheres into a quilt that tells a life story.” - Knack Focus

 

“An astonishing universe, revealing new angles with each listen. A very impressive record!” - Jazz Magazine

 

“Strong record from an underrated guitarist.” - De Standaard

 

“This record offers its listeners a series of atmospheres, somewhere between nostalgia and rage, that shake them up and carry them away.” - Le Soir

 

“Brilliant album that is sure to please fans of open and spacious jazz.” - Cutting Edge

 

“Here, new doors are opened with a bang, releasing a wild torrent whose sonic meanderings venture far beyond what we could have imagined.” - Jazz Mania