Ida Nielsen & The Funkbots

lda Nielsen&#x27;s life was turned upside down when she joined music legend Prince in 2010 and began touring with &quot;The New Power Generation&quot; and the 4-piece powerhouse rock band &quot;3rdeyegirl&quot;. She describes playing with Prince as the most magical musical journey ever. An ongoing learning experience beyond imagination. This journey continues after her years with Prince with a remarkable solo career. In 2019 she was voted one of the top ten bassists in the world in the annual Music Radar poll (along with other greats such as Stanley Clarke &amp; Victor Wooten). Ida Nielsen &amp; The Funkbots deliver an energetic funk show full of good vibes, tight grooves and subtle references to her former employer and teacher Prince. Back at Moods for the 3rd time, for fans of funk, groove, Prince, Nik West and The Next Movement.

Cavaliere Spruzzi (Monorecords)

Warm Up & Afterparty

The man for funk in Zurich for 4 decades. Who doesn&#x27;t remember the legendary Cool Mondays? Smoky afternoons in THE record store in Zurich on Froschaugasse? Or the Real Funk for Real People series at Moods? Cavaliere Spruzzi is back! You better put on your dancing shoes!

Bass

Vocals

Guitar

Drum Kit

Pongo

Adalu, Moods and the Portuguese Consulate in Zurich present the “Lusosonic Festival” - an intimate festival with a strong musical presence. A powerful sound journey through contemporary lusophone music. The program brings together promising talents from Portugal, Cape Verde, Angola and Brazil and demonstrates the diversity and strength of the current musical landscape in the Lusophone world. Lisbon-based Angolan singer/songwriter/performer Pongo has firmly established herself as one of the best Afro-Fusion artists working today. From her sellout shows around Europe, famous for their raw energy, to her captivating COLORS Studio performance, Pongo has become a true vanguard of modern African pop. A formerly of cult favorite electro-crossover band Buraka Som Sistema (joining when she was just 16), Pongo has built a huge following since going solo for her blend of traditional Angolan stylings with hard-hitting, energetic electronic production, seeing her shortlisted for African Artist of the Year at the Kora Awards in 2024 for her album ‘Sakidila’ and her song ‘Kuzola’ featuring on the Fifa 23 Soundtrack. Pongo marked the start of a new creative cycle with her single ‘Katana’ - a fiery, exhilarating track that immediately fired her to 3 the TikTok Viral Charts. Now, she presents ‘Sugar Rush’, a feat with the artist NoMBe, with a joyful energy in a melodic fusion of pop and afro-beats.

Fidju Kitxora

A very recent and somewhat mysterious entity in transit between Lisbon and Cape Verde, Fidju Kitxora releases &quot;Racodja&quot;, their first album, in 2024. Evoking the past, present and future voices of the diaspora, they reorder different languages into a lively and constantly changing music where the heat of funaná, the swing of semba, the syncopations of kuduro and afro-house and other sincere miscegenations flow, among field recordings, gliding synths, vocal samples and an unstoppable barrage of infectious beats.

Romeu

Angelo Romeu is a music selector from the south of Portugal who has been playing music in various venues for over 20 years. With his broad repertoire of music, he manages to get audiences dancing or relaxing by the pool. His travels have taken him to Oslo, Lisbon and currently to Zurich, where he is part of the Kasheme project. He loves sharing musical treasures and taking people on a journey through his record collection.

Percussion

Disk Jockey

Dance

Den Dala

Album Release «Say Hi to the Storks»

When you think of storks, you quickly think of offspring and new beginnings. They also flutter into Moods with Zurich band Den Dala for a record launch when they present their new album ‘Say Hi to the Storks’. Den Dala remains true to their roots. In their songs, they blend jazz, indie and psychedelic rock into a groovy mixture that makes it nearly impossible to stand still. The band is not alone - Junes, Rye (Chestnut Bakery) and Tim Bond, who are also featured on the album, will also be taking part. Not only can you say hi to the storks, but also do something good for them with your ticket. You have the option of making a donation to the Swiss Stork Society with your purchase. And a real record launch always includes a bit of mischief. What do a razor, the guitarist and 200 sold tickets have in common? You&#x27;ll find out at the concert.

Den Dala Community Set feat. Junes, Rye (Chestnut Bakery) und Tim Bond

Album Release «Say Hi to the Storks»

After debuting their new album, they will continue to play music. The five-piece band has invited extra reinforcements for this. Junes, Rye (Chestnut Bakery)  and Tim Bond will be jamming and grooving together with Den Dala. It&#x27;s definitely worth staying. 

Mama Shroom & Yunus Baba

The dynamic duo that is Hollabackshroom and Yunus Findus back at it. 2 for 1 special. Strap up, lean in and stomp those boots, these two clowns come packing bags of wax-stamped surprises. Strictly vinyl, mostly nonsense.

Synthesizer

MKZ Big Band Summit

Big Band Summit 2025 Once again: “Three Bands — One Event!” Every three years, Moods hosts the spectacular summit meeting of three big bands. The matinee will open with the Big Band MKZ under the direction of Zurich saxophonist Christoph Irniger. Next up, the SJMUZ BigBand, led by trombonist Lukas Reinert, will take to the already fired-up stage. For the third set, the two bandleaders will join 14 fellow teachers from the Zurich Music School and Conservatory (MKZ) as performers in the teachers@mkz.big.band , under the direction of pianist Andreas Christoph Szalatnay. The three ensembles present a wide stylistic range of compositions and arrangements, captivating the audience with their shared passion for orchestral jazz.

Joe Sanders' Parallels feat. Plume, Seamus Blake & Kendrick Scott

American bassist and composer Joe Sanders is a jazz great who has shared the stage with many big names. He will do so again at Moods. His band&#x27;s lineup is so impressive that each member could fill the club on their own. With Kendrick Scott on drums, Plume and Seamus Blake on saxophones, and Sanders on bass, this is a band that will make every jazz fan&#x27;s heart beat faster. Together, they will present Sanders&#x27;s latest album, Parallels. On the album, Sanders thrills fans with fine melodies, elegant lyrics, a deep-rooted sense of tradition, and a vibrant groove. His warm, singing bass provides fertile ground for brilliant melodies, even in complex structures, and makes for an experience that delights both the heart and ear. The line-up and the setting for the event are both &quot;unerhört&quot; (unprecedented). &quot;Unerhört!&quot; is a 10-day jazz festival taking place at various locations in Zurich and Winterthur. This concert will be partially seated.

Altsaxophon

Tenorsaxophon

Raul Midón

«Lost & Found»

Raul Midón has worked with countless legends in the industry including Bill Withers, Herbie Hancock, Sting, Terence Blanchard, &amp; Dianne Reeves. His albums “Bad Ass and Blind” and “If You Really Want” were nominated for a Grammy in the “Best Jazz Vocal Album” category in 2017 and 2018 respectively – proof of his artistic class. On his new album “Lost &amp; Found,” the blind singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist once again shows his innovative side. It is Raul&#x27;s first completely self-produced album. To achieve this, he learned the art of sound engineering with the help of Michael O&#x27;Reilly, an experienced New York sound professional whom Raul had already met during his major debut “State of Mind” under the tutelage of legendary producer Arif Mardin (Queen, Aretha Franklin, Roberta Flack, Diana Ross, Barbra Streisand, Bee Gees, Phil Collins, Norah Jones). The album comprises ten multifaceted songs, which Raul himself describes as a mixture of smooth folk, alt-pop, and jazz. A stylistic bouquet that has something for every taste. With his talent for blending genres and his stage presence, he succeeds in conveying pure joie de vivre. Whether on record or live, Raul Midón touches, inspires, and moves.

JazzBaragge Wednesday Jam

The JazzBaragge Wednesday Jam offers an important platform for the Swiss jazz jam scene. After the musical opening of the jam band, lively and exciting sound conversations begin between musicians who spontaneously meet on stage, reflecting the diversity of jazz in all its facets. The JazzBaragge Wednesday Jam is supported by the non-profit association JazzBaragge. There is no presale for JazzBaragge, only box office.

Orchestra Baobab

Orchestra Baobab has been on stage for over 50 years! The Senegalese band was founded in 1970, ten years after the country&#x27;s independence, and created the soundtrack of the young nation with its mixture of traditional music and influences from all over the world. Over the years, the line-up has of course changed, but what makes Orchestra Baobab what it is today has remained the same: An irrepressible joy of playing and the unmistakable mix of Afro-Latin American styles, international pop and traditional griot music. Tour presented by ByteFM

Afreekaya & Voilà Tim

Afreekaya, who shuttles tirelessly between Latin America and the Middle East, between the Caribbean and Africa, makes audiences sweat with his Afro-tropical, funky or raw sounds with a psychedelic or electronic twist. Tim Waller, alias Voilà-Tim, first became aware of South African music in 1985. He was immediately captivated by the beats and the energy, and since then he has taken every opportunity to browse through Africa&#x27;s rich palette of musical styles and bring this lively music closer to the dancing public.

Timbales

Leitung

Trombone

Saxophon

Congas

Jay-Jay Johanson

Jazz, trip hop, pop and even easy listening: these are the building blocks of Jay-Jay Johanson&#x27;s musical universe. For almost 30 years, the Swedish musician, singer and composer has inspired reflection with his melancholy lyrics. From jazzy vocals on bizarre film noir arrangements to electroclash, Johanson has reinvented himself time and again since the &#x27;90s. This is also evident on his latest album, Backstage, which he will be presenting at Moods. This 15th album features tones not heard on previous releases. For instance, he has recorded an entire song in French for the first time. He also surprises with sounds of a soul genre he has never explored before, or with a piece that culminates in a house track. It promises to be an evening full of surprises.

CRi is a newcomer DJ from Zurich and part of the collective Beach Club Underground, whose musical journeys build bridges between electronic textures and lively, organic sounds. Her sets are characterized by light beats and a dense atmosphere that invites you to listen and move in equal measure. Inspired by trip hop, funk and nu jazz, she creates a multi-layered soundscape that fits seamlessly into familiar club nights as well as intimate circles.

Piano

Fender-Rhodes E-Piano

Džambo Agusevi Orchestra

Kultur Shock & Moods present

The Džambo Aguševi Orchestra from Strumica in North Macedonia is one of the spearheads of Balkan brass. Led by trumpet virtuoso Dzambo Aguševi - also known as The Funky Tiger - the ensemble combines traditional rhythms from the southern Balkans with influences from jazz, funk, soul and Turkish music. With an unmistakable, energetic style, they have conquered international stages, from festivals to club concerts. Their sound is rooted in the Roma tradition, but sounds global and contemporary, virtuosic, groovy and full of joy.

Mario Peric

Warm Up & Afterparti

The BalkanEkstra Parti doesn&#x27;t stop at oriental sounds or Arabic rhythms - the main thing is to dance! rrWith the legendary concert and party series Kultur Shock, Mario Peric is one of the pioneers of the Balkan scene as an organizer, DJ and producer. He has been thrilling audiences for many years with his varied, explosive and crazy sounds. His musical spectrum cannot be pinned down to one direction. The main thing is that it rocks!

Trumpet

Horn

Tapan

Simon Berz TECTONIC

Schneider TM

Schneider TM is a multidimensional music project by Dirk Dresselhaus that oscillates between adventurous electronic pop and experimental, improvised free-form music. Occasionally, these contrasting elements are brought together. Since the mid-1990s, Dresselhaus has explored new musical territory with virtually every release, whether solo or through various short- and long-term collaborations and projects. Recently, Schneider TM has moved towards free-form music composed in the moment, using manipulated guitars, sound objects, and field recordings. Examples of this style can be found on albums such as Construction Sounds, Guitar Sounds, and Con-Struct, a posthumous collaboration with Conrad Schnitzler released on Bureau B. Schneider TM&#x27;s current album, &quot;Ereignishorizont,&quot; sounds and feels like the soundtrack to an as-yet-unmade sci-fi film. It reveals the essence of Dresselhaus&#x27;s artistic approach and was created with a rather reduced setup of guitars and effects, as well as an awareness of extended musical techniques, the physicality of sound, and the spirit of improvisation.

Simon Berz is a transdisciplinary artist who seamlessly blends improvised music, sound art, and performance. One example of this is his TECTONIC performance. Berz conceived the idea during an artist residency in Iceland. There, he explored the island&#x27;s soundscapes and discovered the unique acoustic properties of volcanic basalt stones. Berz combines the archaic power of the stones with contemporary electronic sound processing. His work has a special appeal. As Berz himself says, “My hands elicit stories from the basalt that are older than words. In every sound lies a universe; in every vibration, a connection between us and the rhythm of the Earth.&quot; His work is not just music; it is an invitation to feel with our whole bodies how we are all part of a great tectonic dance.

Electronics

Monobloco

Adalu & Moods present

How many stories can you fit into 25 years? In the case of Monobloco, the answer is: infinitely. For more than two decades, the band has been synonymous with excessive celebrations, intense encounters and passion. The anniversary is being celebrated under the motto Nossa História De Amor (Our Love Story). Monobloco has always been a great celebration of love: friendships formed during rehearsals, marriages made to the sound of the tambourine and children growing up to the rhythm of the batucada. Their current repertoire includes classics such as Taj Mahal, Fio Maravilha, Explode Coração as well as new hits from the pen of the famous Jorge Aragão (for example Vou Festejar, Identidade and Coisinha do Pai). Of course, the percussive essence that transcends rhythms and styles remains, delighting fans worldwide.

Miss Trópica

Following the concert, Miss Trópica from Rio de Janeiro will keep everyone on the dance floor with hot rhythms ranging from Brazilian electro and samba rock to cumbia, black music, mangue beat, and baile funk.

Cavaquinho

Snare Drum

Tamburin

Surdo

Florian Favre Trio

Album Release «Live at the bird’s eye»

Pianist Florian Favre of Freiburg is one of the best-known figures on the Swiss jazz scene. With his clear and original style of writing, he creates demystified, pop-influenced, sensitive, and explosive jazz that tells stories. One of these is the Florian Favre Trio, consisting of Favre, Manu Hagmann on double bass, and Arthur Alard on drums. Favre most recently performed solo with his album &quot;Idantitâ&quot;, and he also thrilled the Moods audience with a large ensemble for &quot;Idantitâ Revisited&quot;. However, now the time has come for the return of the Florian Favre Trio, consisting of himself, Manu Hagmann on double bass and Arthur Alard on drums. After a four-year hiatus, a new live album recorded at the Bird&#x27;s Eye Club in Basel will be released in November. The album showcases the trio&#x27;s ability to dance joyfully on a tightrope, exploiting an infinite range of nuances, thanks to the individual agility and musicality of each member.

The Celebration

20 Jahre Metonic Records

Metonic Records is an independent music label based in Biel, founded in early 2005 by Manuel Engel in collaboration with the Trash Collective in Brooklyn, New York. Engel was and is always on the lookout for new collaborations, sounds and new musical constellations. Metonic Records promotes contemporary music and provides inspiration for those who are ready to expand and create change. On this evening, Metonic Records presents both new and established projects from the last 20 years.

Joy Frempong & Meta Marie Louise, Napoleon Maddox, Ana Igluka

FIRST ACT Joy Frempong – Manuel Engel first met Joy Frempong a long time ago, either backstage at the Pod Ring Festival or at a Puts Marie concert in Lucerne, where she performed with Fredy Studer&#x27;s band on the same evening. He congratulated her on her performance and immediately became a fan of her work. Meta Marie Louise – A band that Manuel Engel founded with Kevin Chesham in 2010. Several collaborations followed, and this year the two are performing alongside Napoleon Maddox (Cincinnati) and Ana Igluka (Nantes). Maddox joined them on their last tour in 2024, impressing everyone with his ease, agility, and command of the English language. Igluka worked with Meta Marie Louise in 2015, and the musicians have been close friends ever since.

Annie Aries, Lionel Friedli & Henry Strongbox, Doug Weiss, Romarna Campbell, Estefania Padilla

SECOND ACT Annie Aries – Annie was brought to Engel&#x27;s attention by an old friend from Everest Records. Engel was impressed by her attention to detail and minimalist compositional skills. The idea of pairing her with Lionel Friedli quickly took shape. Friedli&#x27;s style fits perfectly with Aries&#x27;. Engel first met Friedli when he was 15. Even back then, they shared a love of music. As teenagers, they learned jazz standards together and played in various ensembles. Looking back, both musicians are very grateful for this educational time spent together. Henry Strongbox – Manuel Engel&#x27;s &#x27;alter ego&#x27; – loves building boxes that beep, screech, scratch and squeak. He also plays &#x27;prepared piano&#x27; – adding screws, magnets, paper and other items to the strings. He performs alongside Doug Weiss, a world-class bassist and an important mentor during Engel&#x27;s time in NYC. He is a source of inspiration for a whole generation of young double bassists exploring modern jazz. In early 2024, Engel and Weiss had the idea of forming a trio. Now, they have formed a quartet with two young, talented and dynamic drummers who are attracting attention on the European music scene. Romarna Campbell is from Birmingham, and Estefania Chamorro is from Barcelona.

Puts Marie

THIRD ACT Puts Marie – When Manuel Engel returned to Biel after spending almost ten years in New York City, it didn&#x27;t take long for him to meet Max Usata from Puts Marie and strike up a close friendship. Engel later played as a guest on Puts Marie&#x27;s 2013 album Masoch and went on tour with the band when Beni06 (Farfisa organ) was unavailable. Engel describes Puts Marie as one of his favourite bands, a group where intense emotions meet pure freedom. Or, as Engel likes to say, &#x27;Trust is the key&#x27;.

Live Painting – Hervé Thiot

Hervé Thiot (1973), alias AIRBIOS, is a Swiss painter, performer and musician of Mauritian origin living in Biel/ Bienne. His distinctive style and vision are nourished by contact with both underground scenes and established institutions, in a perpetual creative dynamic at the crossroads of artistic disciplines. In his cosmic biotope, humans and technology coexist harmoniously and reinvent a world torn between universal love and bitterness, declined in malicious futuristic visions. The artist with multiple lives conceives his work as an instrument of human encounter and exchange, which leads him to prestigious collaborations and multiple international tours, among others with urban art, dance and opera companies. He has created an astonishing number of murals, paintings, drawings, installations, videos, photographs, decorations, set designs, exhibitions, publications and performances. From the local bar to avant-garde festivals. And sometimes at social events. Like a graffitied aristocratic alley cat, from the aperitif to the opera. The essence of his work lies in movement, vibration, the fragmentation of the gaze, the mixture of artistic disciplines and the exploration of constantly renewed mediums. His artistic career bears witness to an unquenchable thirst for human sharing, travel, innovation and freedom.

Manou Gallo

The path of the energetic bassist, drummer and singer led from the small town of Divo on the Ivory Coast to the biggest stages in the world. None other than the bass legend Bootsy Collins paved the way for Manou Gallo to be named one of the “Top 10 World Best Bass Players”! Gallo is pure power on the bass, mixing jazz, funk, groove, and Afro beat. Once you’ve experienced her, you immediately recognize her uniqueness: In her hands, the bass sometimes becomes a percussion element, driving the groove to fascinating heights. It’s no wonder Bootsy Collins calls her the “African Queen of Bass”. Other giants like Manu Dibango, Mamady Keita, Wyclef Jean, Marcus Miller, and Lucas van Meerwijk have also taken notice of her and shared stages with her. Proud of her African roots, Gallo says she has the musical freedom to play anything. And it’s precisely this freedom that you’ll find on stage: an explosive mixture of funk, jazz, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and confident Afro grooves. With her technique and her music, Manou Gallo impressively proves that she is one of the best bassists in the world.

Keyboards

K.O.S Crew Dancehall Mood

Party

Dancehall Mood is the monthly reggae and dancehall party at Moods. Like on every first Saturday of the month, the K.O.S crew will make the Moods club cooking with hot riddims. This promises an evening full of dancehall hits and reggae rarities, perfectly tuned to the respective audience and immaculately presented by the K.O.S crew and their guest.

MKZ Förderpreis Pop/Rock/Jazz

The Musikschule Konservatorium Zürich (MKZ) is organizing the Pop/Rock/Jazz Advancement Award for the eleventh time. Every year, the best students and bands in this field - the cats and cracks of tomorrow - qualify for the final competition. The finalists in the solo category will be accompanied by a first-class combo made up of MKZ teachers.  

Jowee Omicil

Album Release «sMiles»

Jowee Omicil is a tireless boundary-breaker constantly exploring new musical worlds. No category does justice to this exceptional artist—a saxophonist, singer, pianist, and visionary—who draws inspiration from his Haitian roots to create music that tastes of freedom and carries a mystical touch of rebellion and memory. Born in Montreal to Haitian parents, Omicil blends his heritage, experiences, travels, and discoveries into his music, creating a distinctive expression of curiosity and authenticity. Full of energy and joie de vivre, Jowee is a passionate entertainer who thrills audiences with his melodies and grooves. His music blends the freedom of jazz, the depth of gospel, and pulsating beats that surprise, refresh, and empower—a boost of energy for the soul. At Moods, Jowee Omicil will present his latest work, sMiles, to be released on November 11. It is a manifesto of uncompromising authenticity. It celebrates self-expression, the beauty of imperfection, and the courage to take risks. What appears at first glance to be a rebellious web turns out to be a clear commitment to boundless freedom — the common thread that connects all his work. He pays tribute to Roy Hargrove, recalls Wayne Shorter, and bows to Miles Davis — yet he remains unmistakably himself, never imitating and always creatively new.

Clarinet

Flute

Cornet

Patrick Sommer Sextet – Rhythm Creature

Patrick Sommer

With Rhythm Creature, Patrick Sommer has created an ensemble that behaves like a pulsating organism. The band as a creature is only marginally tamed and indulges its instincts with relish. The musical ideas for this mostly originate from Patrick Sommer&#x27;s preoccupation with the Moroccan guembri, a lute-like, three-stringed instrument from the Western Sahara. The resulting creative output has also had a lasting influence on his approach to his other bass instruments, rhythms, and phrasing. The resulting pieces are characterised by interwoven rhythms, intense moods and captivating melodies. The band members are all groove specialists: Patrick has been working closely with guitarist Michael Bucher for countless years, and he has been playing in various formations with drummer Kaspar Rast, keyboardist Peter Wagner, saxophonist Dave Feusi and percussionist David Stauffacher for almost as long. Rhythm Creature now breathes life into these pieces and releases them into the wild.

Sopransaxophon

Guembri

E-Bass

Fulu Miziki

The name says it all! Roughly translated, Fulu Miziki means music made from garbage and that is also the concept behind this eco-friendly afro-futuristic punk collective: the musicians make their own instruments, costumes and masks from discarded objects such as canisters, metal cans and PVC pipes. Their message is unmistakable: the multidisciplinary artists from the Congo want to draw attention to the accumulating waste in Kinshasa and everywhere else in the world and call on people to reconnect with nature. What does that sound like? Complex yet danceable rhythms and vocals somewhere between punk, electro and Congolese rumba.

Afreekaya

Afreekaya, who shuttles tirelessly between Latin America and the Middle East, between the Caribbean and Africa, is always on the lookout for raw, funky and psychedelic Afro-tropical tunes that have long remained under the radar to share with the world. As label manager at Analog Africa and curator of the Hors Tribu Festival, Afreekaya is constantly active, sharing his musical knowledge to keep the cultural scene moving.

Nesrine

jazzhane & Moods present «Kan Ya Makan»

The Franco-Algerian singer, cellist, and songwriter Nesrine is a modern-day Scheherazade—a storyteller of our time. Her album Kan Ya Makan, Arabic for “Once upon a time,” is like a contemporary collection of tales from One Thousand and One Nights. Nesrine’s rich and intricate sound mirrors her diverse musical background. As a classically trained cellist, she has performed with Daniel Barenboim’s West-Eastern Divan Orchestra and the Valencia Opera Orchestra under Lorin Maazel. She has also taken the stage as a guest performer with the Cirque du Soleil. Despite a promising career in classical orchestras, she chose to follow her solo path—a decision that has led to great success. Several extensive tours throughout Europe followed and Nesrine has thrilled audiences in classical venues such as the Berlin Philharmonie and the Amsterdam Cello Biennale as well as at major jazz and world music festivals. Her songs, which she performs in Arabic, French and English, reflect her personal journey, which is rooted in her Algerian heritage and characterised by her life in Paris. Nesrine has released two internationally acclaimed albums on ACT Music. In early 2024, she also released a digital EP on which she performs together with the world-famous Metropole Orkest. Now she is playing her debut in Zurich, live at Moods. This concert will be partially seated.

Cello

Muriel Grossmann Quartet

Album Release «Breakthrough»

Muriel Grossmann is considered a master of spiritual jazz and has created impressive works with albums such as Devotion (Third Man Records, 2023) and The Light Of the Mind (RR Gems Records, 2024). The Ibiza-based multi-instrumentalist interweaves modal jazz in the tradition of John Coltrane with spiritual post-bop, free improvisation and sonic depth. Her compositions are tailor-made for her fellow musicians and impressively showcase their individual strengths. Grossmann creates a dense, meditative atmosphere on stage, as can be heard most recently on the live album MGQ live at King Georg, Cologne. At Moods, the quartet will present their latest album Breaktrough, which will be released at the end of September 2025 - and prove that they play even more vividly live than in the studio.

Composition

Hammond organ

muralim

Album Release «pony»

For Zurich-based band Muralim, music is a matter of the heart and soul. It&#x27;s those moments when you forget everything else and can just be in the present. Their melodies are catchy yet sophisticated. The grooves invite you to tap your feet, and their enthusiasm fills the air above the stage with excitement. The quintet consists of saxophonist Mauro Reimann, guitarist Joachim Frey, pianist Tim Bond, bassist Elias Kirchgraber, and drummer Martin Maron. They met while studying at the Zurich University of the Arts. There, they quickly attracted attention and were featured in the &quot;Best of Swiss Jazz Bachelors&quot; series. Although Mauro Reimann writes the band&#x27;s music, it is ultimately not a solo effort. When the band jams together, the pieces evolve through the influence of all the band members. The result is music that is hard to resist.

SPECIAL: The President’s Holy Groove Jam 

Zurich Jazz Orchestra feat. Melissa Aldana

At the end of the year, the Zurich Jazz Orchestra presents the Grammy-nominated Blue Note artist Melissa Aldana - one of the most innovative and independent jazz musicians on the international scene. Born in Santiago de Chile, the saxophonist comes from a family of musicians: her father and grandfather were both saxophonists. She began playing the saxophone at the age of six under her father&#x27;s guidance. Initially influenced by Charlie Parker and Cannonball Adderley on the alto saxophone, she switched to the tenor saxophone after hearing Sonny Rollins. As a teenager, she played in jazz clubs in Santiago and was invited by pianist Danilo Pérez to perform at the Panama Jazz Festival in 2005. She later moved to the USA to study at Berklee College of Music. She released her debut album &quot;Free Fall“ in 2010. At the age of just 24, she was the first instrumentalist and first South American musician to win the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition. The Washington Post praised her as representing a new sense of possibility and a new direction in jazz. Her album Visions (2019) earned her a Grammy nomination in the Best Improvised Jazz Solo category. Nate Chinen (NPR Music) called it one of the best jazz albums of the year and praised Aldana&#x27;s ability to combine technical brilliance with a rich emotional palette. The concert program she is presenting with the Zurich Jazz Orchestra at Moods was written entirely by her. One part was arranged by Jim McNeely for the HR Big Band, the other by Ed Partyka especially for the ZJO and its soloists.

Baritone Saxophone

Bassposaune

Shantel & Bucovina Club Soundsystem

Shantel &amp; Bucovina Club Soundsystem bring the full energy of club culture and dance parties live on stage. The analog meets the digital, the east meets the west. With a pulsating spectacle where acoustic is mixed with electronica and beats, you will dance to Balkan Pop, Global Bass, Diaspora Beats, Turkish Psychedelica and Electro to the point of no return.

Ilan Jamon

Global Beats way beyond the Balkan borders: with the BalkanEkstra Parti there are no stops for Oriental sounds or Arabian rhythms – what’s important is the motto: danceable! Where the journey will take us through the night is unclear, but one thing is certain: dancing until the hips hurt, the feet burn and the stars dissolve with the dawn.

Style Bakery feat. Lou Kaena / Jule X / BIGZIS

Renowned acts present their songs in unique versions developed especially for this evening. Raw and unpolished. Hosted by the outstanding collective Jonny Ive, Pablo, Toni Schiavano and Flo Reichle. The December edition features three extraordinary characters: Lou Kaena is an important new voice in Swiss rap. Directly from Wiedikon, she brings French-language lyrics to the stage that deal with sexism, self-image and social expectations - personal, powerful and poetic. It is no coincidence that her collaboration redwhite with Soukey and Ella E became the anthem of the Women&#x27;s National Team 2025. Jule X, the exceptional talent from Bern, has been providing a breath of fresh air with his Vokuhila Mafia for a few years now. His sound is electronic and playful - an unmistakable mix of pop, techno, punk and rap that dissolves genre boundaries with a wink. Big Zis has stood for independence and artistic unyieldingness for over twenty years. She is considered one of the most influential exponents of Swiss rap: lyrically and musically uncompromising, politically clear. Her flow is unmistakable - direct and razor-sharp. She has been a regular on the Style Bakery stage for years and the evenings with her are real highlights. And don&#x27;t forget: Hand-picked vocalists also freestyle with the band. The band and MCs rock each other to unimagined heights and improvise the unheard-of.

Host

Raphael Jost's Swingin' Christmas für Familien

Christmas and jazz - it&#x27;s a tradition. And so are the Swingin&#x27; Christmas concerts by Raphael Jost and his band, which have been a firm fixture of the festive season for many people for over 10 years and ensure sold-out halls. Raphael Jost is that rarest of birds, the British saxophonist Will Vinson, who lives in New York, once said. A singer and songwriter with a great voice and at the same time a pianist whose skills enable him to share the stage with the best. Jost, who has already won the Swiss Jazz Award for his debut album, sees himself as a modern crooner. He leads through the evening with humor and without too much kitsch. Swinging classics such as Let It Snow and Winter Wonderland are joined by his own songs, JingleBells gets a pinch of Brad Mehldau and Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer becomes a sleigh ride to New Orleans. The program leaves plenty of room for solos and at the same time impresses with sophisticated and original arrangements. Singer Stefanie Suhner combines jazz and soul in her magnificent voice and has already toured with Udo Jürgens and Pepe Lienhard, among others. The horn section features the two outstanding soloists Bastien Rieser on trumpet and Christoph Grab on tenor sax. Jost&#x27;s long-time companion Raphael Walser on double bass and the renowned drummer Elmar Frey form the rhythm section. The six musicians are united by their irrepressible joy of playing and their love of the jazz tradition. They inspire the audience with a lot of energy, groove and lively interplay - and ensure a swinging Christmas. - Duration of the concert 50-65 minutes - Children of all ages are welcome at this concert. - We will make sure the volume is appropriate, but we still recommend ear protection for the little ones. - Children under 12 can attend the concert free of charge, but we ask that you reserve a free ticket. - Young people aged 12-16 pay half price. - Can&#x27;t afford a ticket? Email us at info@moods.ch.

Raphael Jost's Swingin' Christmas

teilbestuhlt / partially seated

Christmas and jazz - it&#x27;s a tradition. And so are the Swingin&#x27; Christmas concerts by Raphael Jost and his band, which have been a firm fixture of the festive season for many people for over 10 years and ensure sold-out halls. Raphael Jost is that rarest of birds, the British saxophonist Will Vinson, who lives in New York, once said. A singer and songwriter with a great voice and at the same time a pianist whose skills enable him to share the stage with the best. Jost, who has already won the Swiss Jazz Award for his debut album, sees himself as a modern crooner. He leads through the evening with humor and without too much kitsch. Swinging classics such as Let It Snow and Winter Wonderland are joined by his own songs, JingleBells gets a pinch of Brad Mehldau and Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer becomes a sleigh ride to New Orleans. The program leaves plenty of room for solos and at the same time impresses with sophisticated and original arrangements. Singer Stefanie Suhner combines jazz and soul in her magnificent voice and has already toured with Udo Jürgens and Pepe Lienhard, among others. The horn section features the two outstanding soloists Bastien Rieser on trumpet and Christoph Grab on tenor sax. Jost&#x27;s long-time companion Raphael Walser on double bass and the renowned drummer Elmar Frey form the rhythm section. The six musicians are united by their irrepressible joy of playing and their love of the jazz tradition. They inspire the audience with a lot of energy, groove and lively interplay - and ensure a swinging Christmas.

Lindy Hop Crashkurs by Tanzwolke

One hour before Raphael Jost&#x27;s invites you to dance with Swingin&#x27; Christmas, interested visitors can brush up their skills at the free Lindy Hop crash course. A free course from Tanzwolke for newcomers and beginners. We approve of your suitable outfits. Let&#x27;s dance!

Lindy Hop Dancing Night

Galliano

Spirit Music Society & Moods present

“It&#x27;s hard to say whether it was an idea or if it just happened...” Whatever the reason, in 2023, Rob Gallagher announced: Galliano are back! Formed in London&#x27;s underground clubs and warehouse parties in the late 1980s and making their debut with the Acid Jazz label in 1988, Galliano emerged from a culture encompassing music, dance, fashion, art, design, and literature. “They were the first group to really make the connection between club and jazz culture – the opening line to a space that would later include groups from The Comet is Coming to Ezra Collective,&quot; explained Galliano&#x27;s long-time supporter, Gilles Peterson. Three decades later, Galliano are back with their new album, Halfway Somewhere, released on Peterson&#x27;s label, Brownswood Recordings. Their unmistakable blend of astral jazz, cosmic funk, conscious soul, dub reggae and dancefloor rhythms is as sharp as ever!

V.I.P. Session by JUR Records - DIGITAL (UK) INSIDEMAN (Bassdrive)

JUR Records invites you to the V.I.P. Session: Get ready for a wild night of dancing with renowned DJs and a hefty dose of Drum’n’Bass. For this VIP Session, we’re bringing two true heavyweights of the international Drum &amp; Bass scene to Moods! DIGITAL (UK) Digital has been one of the most influential figures in Drum &amp; Bass and Jungle since the 90s. His sound is deeply rooted in soundsystem culture and dub, with releases on iconic labels such as Metalheadz, 31 Records, V Recordings and many more. Classics like Deadline, Waterhouse Dub or Phantom Force continue to shape the scene to this day. Expect powerful, rolling, roots-inspired vibes! INSIDEMAN (Bassdrive) Insideman hosts his weekly show on the legendary station Bassdrive and also convinces as a producer, with releases on Rebel Music, Influence Records and Locked Up. His sets stand for a refined selection, driving rollers and authentic club energy. Look forward to a night full of Jungle pressure, dub flavour and deep rolling breaks – joined by our locals Toni Caetta, Nemelia, Trice, Frog U and Darius D!

Los Dos Engros

Every year, the Moods program begins with the Los Dos en Gros invasion. Ten friends get together to set Han Sue Lee&#x27;s jungle blues fantasies to music, animate dance legs and drum in the still young year. After 27 years, Tischhauser&#x27;s evening services have become history and so the long time as Nightliner in the Schiffbau of the Schauspielhaus comes to an end. The louder and longer the En Gros will groove and move, the louder the swamp blues will be. Swamp Blues gabbers, Boogie trash is a fact. Let&#x27;s dance into 2026 and melt into a Rio Grande with plenty of power.

Herr Wempe aka DJ Soulsonic

Mr. Wempe plays music with soul: blues, rhythm&#x27;n&#x27;blues, jazz, soul, funk from all over the world. He also works as a music editor at the radio station Open Broadcas. Get dressed &amp; put on your dancin&#x27; shoes!

Accordion

James Brown Tribute Show

The same procedure as every year: the SoulVision Allstars are back with their James Brown Tribute Show! Since 2007 - shortly after James Brown left us for the big stage - this top-notch band of Swiss musicians has ensured that the works of the «Godfather of Soul» are not forgotten. Building on the hits and lesser-known pearls, and with boundless energy on stage, the band delivers a powerful mix of Funk, Soul, and Hip Hop. An evening not only for nostalgics and dyed-in-the-wool Funksters, but also generally for all of those who want to get those hips a-shaking to swing in the New Year.

Orgel

Erika Stucky – STUCKY FINGERS

&quot;Sticky Fingers&quot; is widely regarded as one of the Rolling Stones&#x27; finest albums. According to Rolling Stone magazine, it ranks 64th among the 500 greatest albums. However, that doesn&#x27;t mean it can&#x27;t be improved upon. Certainly differently, though. That brings us to our point: if you slip slightly on the keyboard, &quot;Sticky&quot; becomes &quot;Stucky.&quot; Erika Stucky dares to try this in her new program. Stucky is known for her cover versions. She delves into the essence of a song, tinkering not only with its structure but also its soul. With her unmistakable voice, humor, and poetic subversion, Stucky sheds new light on the legendary album. She weaves jazz interludes, cabaret charm, and a hint of rock aesthetics into a kaleidoscopic, cinematic stage production. In this project, Stucky is joined by two renowned English musicians: Terry Edwards and Paul Cuddeford. Edwards plays the saxophone, trumpet, bass, and melodica and gained musical experience with Madness, Tindersticks, and Nick Cave, to name a few. Guitarist Paul Cuddeford&#x27;s musical résumé is equally impressive. He has played with the crème de la crème of the British music scene, including Bob Geldof and Sir Tom Jones. Together, they will breathe new life into hits such as &quot;Brown Sugar&quot; and bring &quot;Stucky Fingers&quot; to life.

Film Projection

SPECIAL: The President’s New Year’s Groove Jam 

The JazzBaragge Wednesday Jam provides an important platform for the Swiss jazz jam scene. As a musical prelude to the start of the year, the audience can expect hot grooves, rousing solos, catchy shout parts paired with a powerful, expressive voice. The raw playfulness with pulsating energy should inspire jam musicians on the first day of 2025 in a passionate, hypnotic and ecstatic manner. The JazzBaragge Wednesday Jam is supported by the non-profit organization JazzBaragge. There is no advance booking for JazzBaragge, only box office.

Türköz, Sartorius, Blöchlinger

Three people in free fall, with open ears and a radical zest for playing. This description fits the trio of Türköz, Sartorius, and Blöchlinger perfectly. Seeing them perform live is an unforgettable experience. The three musicians skillfully combine their strengths. Saadet Türköz&#x27;s voice connects us to our origins and innermost desires. Julian Sartorius provides a sensitive supporting framework with his drumming, and Lino Blöchlinger uses the saxophone and flute as vibrating, far-reaching sensors. An evening with them is a journey of discovery into the secrets behind sounds that seem to function according to their own laws. It is a solemn dissolution of supposed cultural boundaries. Rhythm, noise, and poetry. Soft layers and sharp edges resonate with a juicy thrust through space.

Bass Saxophon

Zabranjeno Pušenje

With their revolutionary approach and unconventional ideas, Zabranjeno Pušenje brought a breath of fresh air to the music scene - and to social life - back in 1980. Since then, the band has released twelve studio albums and six live and compilation albums. And they still deliver the same, if not an even stronger sound and spirit as at the beginning of their career. The current, perfectly rehearsed line-up consists of Davor Sučić, also known as Sejo Sexon, Robert Boldižar, Toni Lović, Branko Trajkov, also known as Trak, Dejan Orešković, also known as Klo, and Anđela Zebec. New to the team is the multiple Porin award-winning composer and harmonica virtuoso Tomislav Goluban, who enriches the ensemble with his unique style. Today, Zabranjeno Pušenje enjoys a cult status that extends far beyond the borders of the Balkans. Their fan base unites generations who love their unmistakable mix of humor, socially critical lyrics and the authentic spirit of Sarajevo. From legendary classics to the latest songs full of satire, charm and energy. The musicians convince with spontaneity, joy of playing and a closeness to the audience that few can match. Zabranjeno Pušenje is a legend that lives, inspires and connects - for over four decades!

The BalkanEkstra Parti doesn&#x27;t stop at oriental sounds or Arabic rhythms - the main thing is to dance! rrWith the legendary concert and party series Kultur Shock, Mario Peric is one of the pioneers of the Balkan scene as an organizer, DJ and producer. He has been thrilling audiences for many years with his varied, explosive and crazy sounds. His musical spectrum cannot be pinned down to one direction. The main thing is that it rocks!

Violin

Terreirinho Adalu

Terreirinho is a family event organized by Adalu; a warm and welcoming place where children can discover Brazil&#x27;s rich culture in a playful way. Through workshops, stories, dance, and rhythm, Brazil&#x27;s cultural roots are explored and a connection with its origins is established. A space full of joy, encounter, and transformation for children and families who want to experience the authenticity and beauty of Brazilian culture. The workshops will be held in Portuguese and German. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.: Percussion workshop for children (ages 6-12) with Wellington Soares 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.: Dance of the playful body “Cortejo Brincante” (ages 2-12) with Diana Vieira 12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.: Brazilian stories for children (ages 2-12) with Andrea Zemp Nascimento

Perkussion-Workshop – Wellington Soares

At the percussion workshop with Wellington Soares, children discover the world of rhythms through playful experimentation. Using drums, rattles and body movements, they learn to make music, listen and express themselves creatively. The workshop promotes motor skills, coordination and team spirit - all in a lively, musical space full of joy. Wellington Soares is an experienced percussionist with a career spanning decades who has played for renowned Brazilian artists such as Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil and Rappa. With his expertise, he inspires children to discover the fun of making music together and to develop their musical skills through play.

Workshop «Cortejo do Corpo Brincante» – Diana Vieira

At the Cortejo do Corpo Brincante workshop, children and families immerse themselves in the lively rhythms and dances of Brazil. Through playful experiences and creative movement, they discover the world of Afro-Brazilian traditions. This space is designed to encourage each child&#x27;s body awareness, imagination and expression in a safe and inspiring atmosphere. Diana Vieira is a Brazilian dancer, educator and founder of Movimento Corpo Plural. With over 10 years of experience, she develops projects that combine body awareness and cultural identity, inviting children to experience the authentic beauty of Brazilian dance through movement and shared play.

Workshop zur brasilianischen Volkskultur «É o tambor de crioula» – Andréa Zemp Nascimento

With Andréa Zemp Nascimento, the children and their parents immerse themselves in the world of tambor de crioula. Through storytelling according to Sonia Rosa, co-author of the children&#x27;s book É o tambor de crioula, the participants experience traditional dances, Brazilian games and the cultural diversity of Afro-Brazilian roots. Andréa is a poet, art and play educator and architect with training in media art and cultural mediation in Zurich. She brings her passion for Brazilian culture and creative education to this inspiring experience.

Terreiro Adalu

Adalu & Moods present 

Terreiro Adalu is a place of connection to the roots of Brazilian culture. Dedicated to the magic of samba, the rhythmic batucada and the powerful presence - in the cultural Terreiro of Adalu, the community is at home: here people meet, clap, sing and experience the magic of the moment. Samba is a healing, the atmosphere is magical - who makes this possible are the guests. The aim is to overcome stereotypes and promote inclusion through the power of the ancestors to create a profound, warm and unifying cultural experience. This is where singing and community come together in a circle, because this is where life becomes more beautiful. The samba rite is an expression of identity, a movement of transformation and self-empowerment. Come with an open heart, experience all of this with us - and be part of a vibrant, communal samba circle, singing, dancing and celebrating the power of culture together! 19:45 - 20:15: Viktor von Karma (Crash course Samba no Pé) 20:30 - 22:00: Coletivo Raizes do Samba &amp; Neya Castro - Set 1 (Roda de Samba) 22:00 - 22:30: Sonic Sisters - Set 1 (DJ) 22:30 - 00:00: Coletivo Raizes do Samba &amp; Neya Castro - Set 2 00:00 - 02:00: Sonic Sisters - Set 2 (DJ)

Viktor von Karma

Viktor von Karma holds a Master&#x27;s degree in Teaching and Coaching of Dance Professionals from the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). His journey began in Brazil, where he started out in dance education. Today he lives in Zurich and offers courses in company, contemporary dance, improvisation, samba and funk. His crash course is an unconventional opportunity to get to know this popular Brazilian dance form. Afterwards, you can put what you have learned directly into practice during a live samba round.

Coletivo Raizes do Samba & Neya Castro

The Coletivo Raízes do Samba consists of Brazilian musicians residing in Switzerland, including members from Basel and Zurich. The group lives the true spirit of samba and combines the authenticity of Brazilian music with infectious energy and warm interaction with the European audience. With impressive performances at events such as the Kaserne Basel, the Klosterberg Fest Basel and the Lutry Festival, the Coletivo has thrilled both audiences and the press with its musical quality and the lively atmosphere of its shows. Neya Castro is a singer and songwriter who carries the spirit of Samba de Raiz with her powerful voice and vibrant energy. When Neya sings, the music connects people and brings the tradition of samba to life. Her art is full of ancestral power, truthfulness and joy.

Sonic Sisters

Adalu & Moods present Warm Up & Afterparty

The Sonic Sisters - Mishka, Bimba, SLB, NRG, Amaraota and JR the G - stand for bass-heavy bangers and pure energy behind the decks. What unites them? A love of music and the ambition to make the scene more diverse, louder and more female.

Michael Flury & Lukas Langenegger: Songs for Peace

Lukas Langenegger and Michael Flury dedicate themselves to the roots of jazz and folk music as well as protest songs against warmongering, the anti-war songs. Using historical instrumentation with banjo, trombone and voice, they give old songs and thoughts a new effect in our present.

Garn

Release Tour «Loopwheel»

Garn is not just a band; it is an ode to the euphoria of life, an echo of cinematic images and extensive travels. Marc Stucki on saxophone, Urs Müller on guitar, Fabian M Müller on piano, Claude Meier on bass, and Christoph Steiner on drums—together they weave a harmoniously rich and earthy tapestry of sound. Their music is a warm thermal spring in the rugged mountain landscape of the Swiss Alps, where one oscillates between the extremes of nature – from the icy snow to the warming spring. Their rehearsals are filled with passionate debates that imbue their music with a unique depth and a certain defiance. Each concert is an invitation to close your eyes and surrender completely to the flow of sound.

Banjo

The Joe Haider Jazz Orchestra

Joe Haider fills more than one exciting chapter in the history of jazz. He has been active as a jazz pianist, composer, arranger and teacher for over 60 years. The German musician has also left his mark in Switzerland, having directed the Swiss Jazz School in Bern from 1984 to 1995. Now the maestro is turning 90 – and still playing. To celebrate, Haider has treated himself to a tour with the Joe Haider Jazz Orchestra. He is accompanied by twelve Swiss jazz musicians with whom he has played in various projects over the last three decades. That being said, Haider does not see these concerts as a farewell to the stage. Rather, it is a thank you to all his fellow musicians, the audience and all those who have supported him over the years.

Style Bakery feat. Lou Kaena / Jule X / BIGZIS

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