Saxophonist Ben van Gelder and guitarist Reinier Baas proudly announce their third collaborative release, ‘This Is Water.’ This album is a testament to their unique artistic synergy, rooted in the American jazz tradition, but with unmistakably European flair. Drawing from a shared musical vocabulary developed during their 15-year collaboration, Baas and van Gelder effortlessly navigate a diverse range of moods and atmospheres.

Four deeply authentic musicians – each of them admired greatly by the duo – make a guest appearance on ‘This Is Water’. Baas and van Gelder wrote new music for each of them specifically. These tailor-made songs are intended as vehicles for expression that cater to the strengths of each guest, with a focus on improvisation. Pianist Cory Smythe adds singular, ethereal textures, challenging Baas and van Gelder to venture into unknown, microtonal territory. Drummer Jeff Ballard – a childhood hero to the duo – radiates a deep understanding of music and its power to connect. He is a selfless and effortless communicator. Lastly, ‘This Is Water’ features drummer Han Bennink and pianist Marta Warelis, both uncompromising and willing to sacrifice perfection for the sake of emotional resonance.

‘This Is Water’ is inspired by the eponymous speech by novelist David Foster Wallace, delivered at Kenyon College in 2005. In this heartfelt speech, Wallace introduces the idea that individuals should exercise conscious choice in order to interpret reality. He suggests that through “simple awareness,” people possess the freedom to find significance and liberation even in the most mundane aspects of life. He reminds us that even the most tedious moments are “on fire with the same force that lit the stars”.