Orchester Erwin Lehn - Color in Jazz (1974)

Color in Jazz is a 1974 release by the German big band. The album showcases the ensemble’s rich orchestral approach to jazz and fusion, blending traditional big band arrangements with more modern, groove-oriented elements typical of the 1970s jazz scene. Under the direction of Erwin Lehn, the orchestra emphasizes tight ensemble playing, dynamic brass sections, and intricate arrangements that highlight both composition and improvisation.

A key contributor to the album’s sound is Bernd Rabe, who not only performs on alto saxophone but also contributes compositions such as “Atlantic II” and “Color.” His writing adds a contemporary fusion edge to the album, combining rhythmic complexity with melodic sophistication. The presence of a full brass and woodwind section—including trumpet, trombone, flute, and saxophones—creates a lush, layered sound palette. Musicians like Ack Van Rooyen on trumpet and flugelhorn and Joki Freund on tenor saxophone bring strong solo voices, enriching the album’s overall texture. Color in Jazz stands as a vibrant example of European jazz orchestration during the 1970s, balancing big band tradition with modern jazz influences.

Tracklist:
1. Alfredo (E. Lehn) – 5:07
2. Burgess (E. Lehn) – 4:35
3. Atlantic II (B. Rabe) – 5:25
4. El Cuervo Nuevo (B. Rabe) – 6:02
5. Lift Up (B. Rabe) – 4:23
6. Color (B. Rabe) – 11:32
7. Fünf Zu Vier (B. Rabe) – 4:45

Personnel:
Alto Saxophone – Bernd Rabe
Drums – Jörg Gebhard
Flugelhorn, Trumpet – Ack Van Rooyen
Flute – Manfred Hoffbauer
Piano, Organ – H. Kirchgässner*
Tenor Saxophone – Joki Freund
Trombone – Donald Beightol
Trombone – Bob Burgess
Trumpet – Rolf Ericson
Trumpet – Ack Van Rooyen