Come Be Or Come Bop by Joe Kienemann Trio: A Jazz Gem from 1997
If you're a fan of jazz that feels like a cozy chat over coffee, Come Be Or Come Bop by the Joe Kienemann Trio might just be your next favorite album. Released in 1997 under YVP Music (Germany), this record is packed with soulful tunes and playful rhythms that stick to your brain like jam on toast. With Joe Kienemann tickling the ivories, Thomas Stabenow laying down some smooth basslines, and Harald Rüschenbaum keeping things tight on drums, it's got all the makings of a classic trio session. Add in mastering by Ulrich Bichbihler and photography by Sigrid Kienemann, and you’ve got an album that looks as good as it sounds.
Let’s talk tracks—there are 14 of ‘em here, but two really stood out to me. First up is “Emily.” Man, this one hits different. It starts off slow, almost like it's shy, but then Joe’s piano work comes in, gentle yet confident, weaving something so heartfelt you can’t help but lean into it. By the time Harald’s drums kick in softly, it’s like you’re being wrapped in a warm blanket. I think what makes “Emily” unforgettable is how simple it feels—no flashy tricks, just pure emotion dripping through every note. It’s the kind of song that makes you stop whatever you’re doing and just listen.
Then there’s “Gringo Tango,” which couldn’t be more different if it tried. This track has energy for days! From the opening bars, you know you’re in for a ride. The rhythm section locks in tight, creating this infectious groove that practically begs you to get up and move. Whether you’re dancing around your living room or tapping your foot at your desk, “Gringo Tango” grabs hold of you and doesn’t let go. There’s a cheeky vibe to it too—it’s playful without taking itself too seriously, which is exactly what jazz should feel like sometimes.
The rest of the album follows suit, blending ballads, bops, and blues seamlessly. Tracks like “Lily Marleen” bring nostalgia, while “Zwiebop” keeps things quirky and fun. And hey, who could resist a title like “Dis Is Dizzy’s”? That’s gotta put a smile on your face.
What I love most about Come Be Or Come Bop is how human it feels. You can tell these guys weren’t trying to reinvent the wheel—they were just making music they enjoyed. Sometimes albums like this fly under the radar, especially when they come out of smaller labels like YVP Music, but trust me, this one deserves attention.
Oh, and here’s a random thought: listening to this album feels like peeking into a little jazz club in Berlin back in ’97. Like, you can almost smell the cigarette smoke and spilled beer. Not that I’d recommend either of those things, but still—it paints a picture, doesn’t it?
So yeah, give Come Be Or Come Bop a spin. It’s not gonna change your life or anything (unless it does!), but it’ll definitely brighten your day. And honestly? Isn’t that enough?
