Science Slam

Joo Kraus' new album NO EXCUSE! (Jazzhaus Records, 09/2024) A musically varied bag, socio-political discourses & one thing: good vibes! Crossing genre boundaries and dissolving style labels – this is Joo Kraus' great passion. The award-winning trumpeter lives this same passion with his new album NO EXCUSE! fully. Music that is sometimes reminiscent of the rock of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, sometimes of the soul of the Commodores and sometimes of the psychedelic vocals of Pink Floyd. The whole album is a mix of genres and moods, which is above all one thing: fun! The songs are colorful, diverse, exciting, experimental, far from musical convention and yet unmistakable - totally Joo Kraus! NO EXCUSE! While Joo's previous albums focused on the jazz groove, now it's more rock-oriented. Jazz rock, indie, alternative rock and some pop elements in particular take up a lot of space. Excuses/excuses and apologies can always be found, says Joo Kraus, but sometimes they are simply out of place! Joo also carries these mind games on the album in terms of light and heavy themes. Most of the titles focus on the here and now. They are often about perseverance and willpower in the face of the negative things in life that try to throw you off track and take away your hope. Joo's motto is: get up, look ahead, no matter what - NO EXCUSE!! Joo wants nothing but positivity in life: to surround himself with good people, a roof over his head and just good vibes.