Leaves of Lily

Leaves of Lily was released on CD in 2018. On this album, the Dutch saxophonist and composer presents a rich, orchestral jazz sound centred on the interplay between wind instruments, vocal lines and the rhythm section. Kika Sprangers is known for her lyrical and evocative playing style, which leaves room for both arranged sections and improvisation and personal expression.

The album includes tracks such as Come To Terms, Hiraeth and the title track Leaves of Lily. Come To Terms opens with a tranquil atmosphere and immediately showcases the warm sound of Sprangers’ saxophone, supported by a transparent accompaniment of piano and guitar. ‘Hiraeth’ evokes melancholy and depth thanks to the unique interplay between the wind instruments and vocals. The title track ‘Leaves of Lily’ stands out for its delicate balance between the melody and the rich arrangements, in which different instrumental groups are elegantly interwoven.

The music on Leaves of Lily is characterised by subtle melodic lines, clear harmonies and a rich palette of timbres. The influence of contemporary jazz and European jazz traditions is clearly audible, with influences from both lyrical ECM jazz and contemporary orchestral jazz projects. The line-up on the album is extensive: alongside the quintet featuring piano, guitar and rhythm section, there are contributions from various vocalists, brass players such as trumpet and French horn, and woodwind players such as flute and bass clarinet.

Leaves of Lily was a significant project in the early stages of Kika Sprangers’ career and marked her development as a bandleader and composer within the Dutch and international jazz scene. The album takes listeners on a surprising and atmospheric journey through modern jazz, with each track revealing a new facet of Sprangers’ musical vision.