NOVA is an international quintet at the crossroads of modern and contemporary jazz, shaped over time by Félix Zurstrassen alongside some of the most remarkable musicians of their generation. The Belgian bassist brilliantly combines the sophistication of his music with a clear, collective and generous experience, carried by outstanding improvisers.
His longtime partners include: Franco-Brazilian guitarist Nelson Veras, Dutch alto saxophonist Ben van Gelder, British pianist Kit Downes, and Belgian drummer Antoine Pierre. Three albums highlight these European musicians and trace the evolution of the project, from a trio to a quartet, and finally to a quintet. The project remains open to new artistic collaborations, regularly working with top international musicians. Two major figures in American jazz, pianist Aaron Parks and drummer Jeff Ballard, join the group for a five-concert tour of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands in March 2026. The years ahead promise exciting surprises!
« Although he draws on classical and contemporary music, Félix Zurstrassen's jazz is above all melodic and organic, with shifting and surprising forms that make it a veritable living substance. [...] The result is an enthralling piece of work that demands the utmost respect for its depth and rigour. »
⭑⭑⭑⭑ Félix Marciano, Jazz Magazine (FR)
« The marvellous chemistry between these musicians produces an album of great class. Everything sounds so natural, so joyful, so detached, so free. It's hardly surprising that these musicians continue to come together for new projects or groups, such is their chemistry. Elusive is great 'European' jazz. »
⭑⭑⭑⭑ Dick Hovenga, Written in Music (NL)
« This is an exciting album: jazz, real jazz, that swings, grooves, energises and sends you into the clouds. The melodies composed by bassist Félix Zurstrassen are fantastic. And the way the five musicians treat them is beyond description. »
⭑⭑⭑ Jean-Claude Vantroyen, MAD Le Soir (BE)
Elusive, NOVA's latest album was released on February 09th, 2024 [Igloo Records]
Booking • Management
Félix Zurstrassen
zurstrassen.felix@gmail.com
+32 (0)496 03 26 38
Press Igloo Records
Hélène Defosse
promo@sowarex.be
Timeline
Photos © André Moustac, Gaël Maleux