PRIM is an Austrian jazz ensemble that challenges the traditional piano trio format. Formed in 2015 in Vienna, the band distinguishes itself from the cultural landscape of the city. Drawing from such diverse sources of inspiration as e.s.t, the Neil Cowley Trio, GoGo Penguin and Johann Sebastian Bach, the three musicians (Felix Biller, Christoph Karas, Martin Melzer) nevertheless manage to establish their unique sound. With music described as “adventurous and sharp” (Jazzflits, NL), PRIM cannot be easily classified. Their multifaceted style is experimental but accessible, their sound “juicy and sparkling” (Jazzport, CZ), their playing virtuous and yet entertaining.
Their newest album Garnet Tales (Alessa Records, 2020) proves the band’s willingness to constantly experiment with sounds and schemes to achieve great narrative quality. Described as “a gem of a release” (Green Man Review, US), the album is an elaborate, lively mixture of lyrical ballads and funky pieces. The same critic compared PRIM’s sound to that of the American trio The Bad Plus. They have been enthusiastically received by the public in many settings (jazzahead! Bremen, Jazz Brno, ACF Bratislava, in China and many more) and featured on radio shows such as the Ö1 Jazznacht, Radio Proglas, Radio Wroclaw or JazzFM.
