Depart
The band was founded by the Swiss musicians Harry Sokal (saxophone), Heiri Känzig (bass) and the Austrian drummer Jojo Mayer (drums). It combines jazz improvisation with influences from alpine folk music, which has given it a unique sound and a special position in the European jazz scene. Their virtuoso live performances and rhythmic complexity in particular have earned Depart international acclaim. After a long break, the band was revitalised in 2008 with drummer Martin Valihora replacing Mayer and has continued its musical journey ever since. Depart has released several albums and performed at prestigious festivals worldwide, continuing to push the boundaries of jazz through their cross-genre compositions.
