Lisa Cat-Berro : Solaxis

Recording an album as a septet with five saxophonists and a rhythm section was a bold move, and it’s clear that Lisa Cat-Berro had been dreaming of it for a long time. Featuring compositions written entirely by her—with one exception—the saxophonist brought together female wind players she knows well, as nearly all of them are members of Rhoda Scott’s bands, where Cat-Berro serves as the resident alto saxophonist.

And one can’t help but think that the bandleader composed this album with them in mind. The themes she’s written all possess a strong rhythmic dimension that at times brings to mind the works of Steve Reich, Philip Glass, or Moondog (whose composition she covers). But the other fascinating aspect of this beautiful recording is the timbral colors produced by the interplay of the different saxophones.

These shimmering tones flow into your ears with supreme ease, and Lisa has arranged them with consummate artistry. We move from one track to the next with delight, and the solos performed by each saxophonist emerge from the soundscape with remarkable fluidity. In this context, the electric bass and drums provide a steady beat that propels the horn section and lends the ensemble a welcome energy. This is, therefore, a complete success, and after listening to this highly original album, one is left with a strong desire to hear it again, so evident is its beauty.

Musicians: Lisa Cat-Berro • alto saxophone · Camille Maussion • soprano saxophone · Géraldine Laurent • alto saxophone · Sophie Alour • tenor saxophone · Céline Bonacina • baritone saxophone · Thimotée Robert • electric bass · Guillaume Lantonnet • drums · Label:  Inside Air · Release: September 18, 2026