Pianist Michel HERR is known internationally as a composer/arranger. He has been writing for all kinds of instrumental set-ups.

He explored the nonet format on several occasions, a.o. in 2001, when he formed one ("the Belgian all stars") for the album "Meggie" of baritone sax player Jean-Pierre GEBLER. The repertoire of the album, arranged by the pianist, could be described as post bop to cool jazz.

Afterwards, Michel decided to give the ensemble a life of its own and rapidly expanded the concept to present new and more personal material, like a.o. some more modern pieces composed by himself and one by Steve Houben, plus great pieces by Herbie Hancock, Hubert Laws, and a few magical standards etc..., all arranged by Michel.

After a few concerts, the band has found its direction and its sound. The solists are superb, among the very best one can find in Belgium, and they shine in the framework of refined, colourful arrangements, where brass and woodwinds produce diverse and contrasting colours.

The music is rich, the arrangements refined, tasteful, creative and swinging, and the concept is enjoyable and accessible at all times.

The band made several successful appearances in the nonet format.

In October 2005, it also was the specially featured band, this time in tentet, during the Belgian Django d'Or evening (recorded by the Belgian tv) under the (occasional) name of "the Michel Herr Gold Orchestra" (see photo).

In July 2006, Michel Herr & Life Lines appeared during the "Blue Note Records Jazz Festival" in Ghent.

© Photo : Jos L. Knaepen
© Photo : Jos L. Knaepen