Bop Explosion – Simmering. A New Chapter in Vienna’s Jazz Scene
- Capricorn Music
- Mar 2
- 2 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
With Simmering, Bop Explosion release their second album, further solidifying their place within Vienna’s vibrant jazz landscape.
Though still a relatively young formation, the group reads like a who’s who of Austrian jazz – an all-star lineup from Vienna with international reach. The project was initiated by pianist and composer Gerhard Schramke, who contributes the album’s original compositions alongside selected jazz standards.
Line-up
Gerhard Schramke – Piano
Lili Mae – Vocals
Johannes Probst – Trumpet
Márton Papp – Alto Saxophone
Uli Langthaler – Bass
Dusan Novakov – Drums
Andi Steirer – Percussion
Here, extensive stage experience meets refined interplay and musical openness. The sound moves between classic jazz tradition and a distinctly contemporary approach, leaving ample room for interaction, spontaneity, and groove. The interplay between rhythm section and percussion brings energy and drive while maintaining musical depth and nuance.
A Distinct Voice Meets Jazz History
Simmering combines Schramke’s original compositions with classics by Thelonious Monk, Irving Berlin, Hoagy Carmichael, George Gershwin, and Bobby Timmons. At times rhythmically sharp and driving, at others lyrical and atmospherically dense, the album unfolds with variety and character. Some pieces are purely instrumental, while others feature the expressive and radiant voice of Lili Mae. The unmistakable percussion of Andi Steirer adds further sonic color and expands the band’s dynamic range.
The album was recorded and mixed on October 4 and 5, 2025, at Dukatton Studio Vienna by drummer Dusan Novakov. Mastering was done at Capricorn Music, and we are very proud to accompany this release as label and release partner.
Bop Explosion can be experienced live, among other occasions, at the official release concert on March 9 at Jazzland. A first impression of the group’s live dynamics is offered by “Tune for Pharoah,” recorded as part of the Capricorn Music Live Recordings series in our studio.
Further information about the band and upcoming concerts can be found on the official Bop Explosion website.
Simmering is available digitally on all major streaming platforms
The album is also available for digital purchase via the Capricorn Music Store.
Physical editions on CD and vinyl are available, among other places, at the Vienna record store Adagietto.
