SALOMEA is a German four-piece led by German-American singer, composer and producer Rebekka Salomea, alongside Yannis Anft on keys, Oli Lutz on bass and Leif Berger on drums. Blending alternative R&B, neo-soul, contemporary jazz and electronica, the band has created a distinctive musical universe shaped by Rebekka’s singular voice, deeply personal lyrics and the exceptional chemistry of its members.
Recently named “Artist of the Year” at the German Jazz Awards, SALOMEA now return with their fourth album, axxxis, out October 2. The album is like a romcom unfolding inside your favorite sitcom. At its center are Rebekka Salomea’s personal stories – tender, vulnerable, occasionally absurd – held by the steady presence and commitment of the band around her. You’re not pulled into the drama; you’re invited to watch it breathe. The result is intimate without being too heavy to hold, emotional without insisting on catharsis. Very raw. And not that deep. Unless, of course, it is.
Questions and Answers
3 FACTS
1: Raptors are my spirit animals
2: Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable (César A. Cruz)
3: The gut is the second brain
11 QUESTIONS
1. What is the biggest inspiration for your music?
Experiencing life fully, feeling all the feelings – the highest highs and the lowest lows – facing all the emotions. Conversations with friends. Solange, Thundercat (live), Pharrell Williams and Marina Abramović. Waves and trees, long walks and swimming in cold lakes. Atlanta, Adventure Time, The Artist’s Way, The Color Purple. Cuddling with my godson and observing people on the tram. Eaves dropping on people’s discussions and going to live concerts. Mainly improvised music. Wild animals & good views. Morning pages & artist dates.
2. How and when did you get into making music?
I always sang and played the flute for a while but for the longest time I wanted to be a professional actor. It was only at 21, after reading a Billie Holiday biography, that I realized I wanted to sing full time, learn piano, write & produce my own music, lead a band, release records and go on tour. I was pretty insecure at first but I met my bandmates early on and they gave me space and time to experiment and try anything I wanted to try.
3. What are 5 of your favourite albums of all time? (yes we know it is difficult).
Carl Orff – Carmina Burana
Billie Holiday – The Essential (Compilation)
Esperanza Spalding – Radio Music Society
Solange – When I Get Home
Hiatus Kaiyote – Choose Your Weapon
4. What do you associate with Berlin?
A bunch of my closest friends, our keyboard player and co-producer Yannis. The rich, diverse culture. XJAZZ, Donau115, KM28. My thoughts are free in Berlin, people look insanely cool. It’s inspiring and intimidating at the same time.
5. What’s your favourite place in your town?
My apartment, Niehler Hafen, Flora, Loft, Jump House & wherever my friends are.
6. If there was no music in the world, what would you do instead?
I would dance in silence and move to an island.
7. What was the last record/music you bought or listened to?
So Sorry – We Are So Sorry
8. Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Donald Glover
9. What was your best gig (as performer or spectator)?
I saw Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso the other day – that was pretty amazing.
10. How important is technology to your creative process?
Only the basics like Ableton, an interface, a laptop, a mic, some keyboards. I don’t need much more.
11. On November 22nd, you’ll be presenting your new album “axxxis” at Berghain Kantine. What can we expect from your concert?
A full on immersive live experience. The band and I are on fire for this tour, the arrangements are so fun and we’re ready to leave our hearts on each and every stage. We’re creating an entire experience around the concert – so come early and stay late and immerse yourself in everything there is to discover. It’s my desire to not only offer music and entertainment but to create a safer space for true connection and self-reflection. More about that very soon!
