How did MaxMantis come about? We were the backing band for lots of horn-players and singers for a few years, and during that time we kept being told by friends, audience members and other musicians how much energy, enthusiasm and joy we played with together. It became a natural decision to form a trio and collaboratively write music. Luckily for us we’re still very good friends today, and all contribute equally to writing and making music.
What can audiences expect to hear when MaxMantis play at MIJF? ‘Hear’….. Maybe ‘feel’ is more important. Audiences can expect to feel a lot of energy and excitement. They can also expect to hear a storm, chaos and at the same time moments of calm distinct melodies that resonate through their simplicity. There will be contrast – we love contrast and doing the unexpected – it’s what keeps it entertaining. We are sure that by the end of the night audiences will understand why we make music together. The joy, the laughter and the desire to create in the moment binds us.
What’s the jazz scene like in Switzerland? Switzerland has a natural appreciation and culture for music that has developed from traditional folk music. This upbeat and danceable folk music transcends nicely to jazz, which is reflected in a hip, busy little jazz scene in the heart of Europe.
