Organic Trio

Biography

Organic Trio is a contemporary jazz group formed by guitarist Brian Seeger, French organist Jean-Yves Jung, and Luxembourgish drummer Paul Wiltgen. The trio originated from New Orleans, a city renowned for its vibrant jazz scene, and their music reflects a blend of American jazz roots with European influences. Seeger, a mainstay in New Orleans jazz, brings a deep understanding of the city's traditions and a penchant for melodic improvisation, while Jung and Wiltgen add international flair and technical prowess to the ensemble.

The group is celebrated for their intuitive interplay, creative arrangements, and a sound that is both modern and rooted in the classic organ trio tradition. Their debut album, 'Home Remembered,' was recorded at the University of New Orleans studio and features original compositions by Seeger that showcase the trio's dynamic range and melodic sensibility. Their follow-up, 'Saturn’s Spell,' further established their reputation, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Organic Trio's style is characterized by soulful grooves, uncluttered textures, and a willingness to explore unusual rhythms and free jazz moments, all while maintaining a natural, organic feel.

Each member brings a wealth of experience: Seeger is a respected educator and performer who has worked with jazz legends like Dr. Lonnie Smith and Big John Patton; Jung is known for his work with Bireli Lagrene and other European jazz greats; and Wiltgen is an accomplished drummer and composer who has collaborated with leading figures on the international jazz scene. Together, they have created a unique voice in contemporary jazz, blending tradition with innovation.

Fun Facts

• Organic Trio's album 'Saturn’s Spell' reached second place on the US jazz charts, according to Chronicle.lu.
• The trio's members hail from three different countries: the United States (Seeger), France (Jung), and Luxembourg (Wiltgen), making them a truly international group.
• Jean-Yves Jung is also a featured organist with Bireli Lagrene, one of Europe's top jazz guitarists.
• Their debut album 'Home Remembered' was recorded at the University of New Orleans studio, highlighting their strong connection to the New Orleans jazz community.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Gary Burton - Brian Seeger studied with him, influencing his approach to jazz guitar and improvisation. (Mentorship during Seeger's studies) [1990s]
• Ellis Marsalis - Mentor to Brian Seeger, shaping his jazz sensibility and compositional style. (Mentorship during Seeger's studies) [1990s]
• David Liebman - Paul Wiltgen studied with him during his master's at Manhattan School of Music. (Mentorship during Wiltgen's studies) [2000s]

Key Collaborators

• Bireli Lagrene - Jean-Yves Jung is the organist in Lagrene’s quartet and featured on his albums. (Mouvements (Verve)) [2010s–present]
• Trio Reis/Demuth/Wiltgen - Paul Wiltgen is a core member of this collective, performing and recording extensively. (Laborie Records releases) [2010s–present]
• Dr. Lonnie Smith - Brian Seeger has performed with this legendary organist, deepening his connection to the organ trio tradition. (Live performances) [2000s]
• Big John Patton - Brian Seeger has performed with Patton, another organ jazz legend. (Live performances) [2000s]

Artists Influenced

• Students at University of New Orleans - Brian Seeger, as head of Jazz Studies, has mentored numerous emerging jazz musicians. (Student recordings, performances) [2000s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. One size too big (Powerplay)
2. Marklandsgatan (Marklandsgatan)
3. Powerplay (Powerplay)
4. Powerplay (Powerplay)
5. Marklandsgatan (Powerplay)
6. Marklandsgatan (Marklandsgatan)
7. Powerplay (Powerplay)
8. Powerplay (Powerplay)
9. Peroni double (Powerplay)
10. Sex drugs & Rock´n´roll (Powerplay)

External Links

• Spotify