Méandres is a French jazz trio formed in 2010 in Marseille, consisting of saxophonist and composer Fabien Genais, cellist Emmanuel Cremer, and tenor saxophonist and keyboardist Uli Wolters. Known for their intricate compositions and seamless fusion of acoustic and electronic elements, their music blends jazz with influences from rock, world music, and ambient soundscapes. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2012, set the foundation for their exploratory approach, leaning heavily on jazz improvisation while incorporating cinematic and experimental elements. Over a decade later, Chapel (2023) refined their signature style, offering an introspective and atmospheric collection of compositions that pushed the boundaries of contemporary jazz, layering saxophone harmonies with ambient textures. Their latest release, Lost Robot (2025), marks a distinct evolution in their sound. While still deeply rooted in jazz, the album shifts towards darker sonic landscapes, drawing inspiration from trip-hop, hip-hop, and alternative jazz. The heavier use of electronic production, brooding rhythms, and layered textures gives Lost Robot a more cinematic and immersive quality, showcasing the band's ability to evolve while maintaining their improvisational core. The album was awarded New Musik Radar’s Most Loved Award, further cementing Méandres as a standout act pushing the boundaries of modern jazz.
Little Wooden Raft Appolonie, Arnaud Vé, Arnaud Vecrin, Emmanuel Cremer, Fabien Genais, Méandres, Polly Sinko track downtempo, trip hop