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Finn Wiest: Aurora

By La-Faithia White
May 15, 2025
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Award-winning drummer

Finn Wiest

drums

" data-original-title="" title="">Finn Wiest is a first-call sideman in the New York City Jazz scene. He has just finished his Master's degree at the City College of New York with Carl Allen,

" data-original-title="" title="">Steve Wilson and Mike Holobar.

Born in Biberach An Der Riss, Germany, Wiest began playing drums at the age of four. He has performed and toured with renowned musicians such as

Ray Gallon

piano

" data-original-title="" title="">Ray Gallon,

Pablo Held

piano
b.1986

" data-original-title="" title="">Pablo Held,

Florian Ross

composer / conductor
b.1972

" data-original-title="" title="">Florian Ross, and

Tyreek McDole

vocals

" data-original-title="" title="">Tyreek McDole.

As leader and drummer, Wiest guides the group with a rhythmic sensitivity that is both grounding and dynamic. Wiest's drumming is a study in precision and feel. Every brush and beat purposeful, yet alive with spontaneity. This is jazz with a pulse, intimate yet expansive, anchored in tradition but brimming with contemporary flair. Aurora features five original compositions one by each band member.

The journey begins with "Old Kid," an energetic spark of melody where rhythm and spirit collide. Finn Wiest's crisp drumming and

Leandro Irarragorri

piano

" data-original-title="" title="">Leandro Irarragorri's lively piano set the stage, while

Victor Fox

saxophone

" data-original-title="" title="">Victor Fox's tenor saxophone leads the charge, weaving seamlessly with Julius van Rhee's vibrant alto lines. Rhee's final solo grooves and soars, bringing the tune to a thrilling close. "Old Kid" is composed by

Calvin Lennig

bass, acoustic

" data-original-title="" title="">Calvin Lennig.

The title track, "Aurora," floats in like the first light of morning. Soft, moody saxophones drift over a smooth, enchanting melody, while the bass hums gently beneath, grounding the dreamlike atmosphere. "Aurora" feels both transformational and inspirational. A tender meditation composed by Irarragorri. "Waltz" dances forward on a moderate three- quarter rhythm, flowing with grace and warmth, its memorable melody lingers in the air, while the saxophones glide and intertwine in arrangements that feel painterly. Composed by Finn Wiest. The pace shifts dramatically with "Giga," a whirlwind of sound. Fast, eclectic, and thrillingly suspenseful, this track is a celebration of playful energy and bold improvisation. It is jazz on the move, never sitting still for long. Composed by Victor Fox.

Finally, "Zu Viel" offers a gentle landing, an easy, inviting listen wrapped in soulful saxophone solos and an intimate, expressive piano moment from Irarragorri. "Zu Viel" meaning "Too Much" in German, is anything but. It is a perfectly matured, deeply satisfying end to the album. Composed by

Julius van Rhee

saxophone

" data-original-title="" title="">Julius van Rhee .

With Aurora the Finn Wiest Quintet delivers a collection of richly textured soundscapes, full of heart, craft, and imagination. A must listen for anyone who believes in the transformative power of jazz.

Learn more about our star rating system

Track Listing

Old Kid; Aurora; Waltz; Giga; Zu Viel.

Personnel

Finn Wiest

drums

Julius van Rhee

saxophone

Victor Fox

saxophone

Leandro Irarragorri

piano

Calvin Lennig

bass, acoustic

Additional Instrumentation

Julius Van Rheez; alto sax; Victor Fox: tenor sax; Leandro Irarragorri: piano; Calvin Lennig: bass; Finn Wiest: drums.

Album information

Title: Aurora | Year Released: 2025 | Record Label: Self Produced

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