“Very interesting and complex compositions and above all captivating melody lines. An album that impresses with its richness of sounds and melodies. I am full of admiration for Laura Lenhardt's ingenuity, ideas and consistency in the structure of the content, who has a perfect command of form, logical argumentation and expression. A mature and well thought-out album that is really worth listening to.” (Jacek Brun, Jazz-Fun 01.02.2025)
“Birds” is the debut album by German singer and composer Laura Lenhardt, which she recorded with an 11-piece jazz ensemble. Lenhardt is particularly drawn to Brazilian music and has toured as a duo with guitarist Marco Antonio da Costas and the all-female “Finest sound poetry Trio” INNSÆI. Now her songs can be heard in English and Portuguese in a full band sound. The variety of sounds ranges from flute, cello and various saxophones to bass clarinet, trombone, guitar, piano and a rhythm section - in other words, a wide range of sounds. And she makes full use of it. Some tracks are small albums in themselves, full of little highlights, rhythmic twists and playful surprises. I particularly like the way she groups the instruments, sometimes putting double bass and flutes in a duet, mixing in rocky echoes of electric guitar or sprinkling in little details. The album begins with a Portuguese poem in which delicate swallows awaken (“Rapsódia”), before the whole ensemble joins in on the following “Feathers” and unfolds its orchestral power. “Voyage” is a wild yet harmonious road trip, symbolizing the impressions she has taken with her on her musical travels from Graz via Brussels to Rio de Janeiro. Lenhardt sings confidently in all registers, accomplished vocal teacher that she is, powerful and at the same time exuding lightness.” (Mane Stelzer, Melodiva.de)
(…) Don't mess around, go big - that's the impression you get from Laura Lenhardt's debut, which was released on the Austrian Sessionwork label. Born in Weimar, she can be experienced on the record as a singer and composer, surrounded by a large ensemble that also brings in sounds other than typical jazz facets, such as the use of strings. (…) She skillfully plays with the various sound options of the twelve-piece formation.” (Verena Düren, Jazzthetik Magazine März/April 39. Jahr 2025 )
“(…)The arrangements are a delicate balance of complexity and clarity, a hallmark of her ability to craft music that is as intellectually engaging as it is soulfully rich. But it’s not just her compositions that captivate. Laura’s voice, pure and unpretentious, glides effortlessly through each piece, imbuing every song with a sense of sincerity and joy. There’s a warmth in her tone that invites you in, making you feel as though you’re sharing in an intimate musical conversation— a true pleasure to listen to. I am confident that with this album, Laura Lenhardt will capture the attention of a wider audience. It is my hope that this project not only showcases her immense talent but also opens doors for her to continue growing as an artist. She deserves every opportunity to keep developing her creativity and musicianship, and I look forward to seeing where her journey will take her next.”
(Composer and pianist, Michelino Bisceglia)