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This time Adriane Muttenthaler added a string quartett to her original sextet Criss-Cross. [...] For sure "Places & Faces" does not present jazz that was romantically packed by means of strings. Both the jazz sextet and the string quartet hold different positions originating from clever arrangements. These two orchestral formations act on their own never losing their connections. Nevertheless Adriane Muttenthaler spares space for soli, which is difficult task, but thanks to the discipline of the musicians this all contributes to a timeless, beautiful and very swinging album.

Jazzzeit (Christian Bakunyi)

I like the way Ms. Muttenthaler continually moves away from the trite and overdone aspect of mainstream music. This is not so much a blowing session (theme, solos, and out) as much as it is a vehicle for her fine melodies. The section work keeps the songs in focus and sets up the mostly short but usually substantial solos. In a pleasing way, it reminds this listeners of the "cinematic" music bassist Charlie Haden is creating with this quartet (Ernie Watts, Lawrence Marable, and Alan Broadbent). Some listeners might wish that soloists stretch out a bit more. All in all, a strong introduction to the appealing music from Adriane Muttenthaler.
(review CD "asphalt & neon")

Cadence (USA)