Naive Improvisations 3 is a six-track solo piano EP by Jubitone, a project created by Hans Fuecker that is based in Lisbon, Portugal. The three (so far!) volumes in the series are all spontaneous solo piano improvisations. I haven’t heard the previous two volumes (yet!), but the tracks on this one are graceful, warm and relaxing - music to wrap yourself in while getting very pleasantly lost in the music. Quoting Hans Fuecker: “I didn’t write these pieces. I discovered them.” Having studied classical piano as well as composition and jazz trombone, Fuecker brings a wide variety of musical styles to his music, filtering them through his own emotions and experiences to create something beautifully unique yet easily relatable. His past work has included concert performances, jazz ensembles, radio orchestras, television productions and recording studios that feature a blend of jazz, Latin, pop and orchestral music.

Fuecker also founded the Jubitone Trio in 2017. The group includes piano, double bass and drums, and creates music that is shaped by improvisation, atmosphere and storytelling with jazz and classical influences and “an openness to the unexpected.” The Trio creates music that feels cinematic, spontaneous and distinctly its own.

Naive Improvisations 3 begins with “Dias Leves,” which translates to “Easy Days.” Very relaxed, warm and gently upbeat, it’s a very welcoming start! “Não Incomodar” (“Do Not Disturb”) has a gentle, flowing quality that is both soothing and reassuring. “A Paixão” (“Passion”) is a favorite with its laid-back left hand and much more intense right hand, both speaking from the heart. “Por Entre as Coisas” (“Through the Things”) feels much like a conversation between close friends - speaking freely and without reservations. Some parts of the piece are simple and direct while others are more intense and passionate. I really like this one, too! “Tudo a Seu Tempo” translates as “All In Good Time” and seems to be a study in patience and acceptance. Very open and unhurried, the tempo and melody are very free, unfolding gracefully and naturally without a lot of structure yet making perfect musical sense. “À Procura de…” translates as “In Search Of” or “Seeking,” and the music really feels like it is earnestly in search of something (or someone) and not having much success. Heartfelt emotion flows throughout the piece, expressing sadness as it seems to lose hope and become more resigned to the outcome. It’s a very beautiful close to an exceptional album, and I can’t wait to hear more music from Jubitone!

Naive Improvisations 3 is available to stream and download on Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as on many streaming services including Spotify, Pandora and YouTube. Very highly recommended!