The notes emanating from jazz flutist Christian Artmann’s flute resembles the distinct musical language heard in some of the classical music repertoire’s greatest works. It’s no wonder since Artmann was raised on a heavy dose of J.S. Bach and other giants of classical music. On Fields of Pannonia (Sunnyside Records, 4023) he is joined by drummer Jeff Hirshfield, bassist Johannes Weidenmueller and pianist Gregg Kallor and together they communicate an impressive program consisting of 10 original compositions composed by Christian Artmann and Gregg Kallor.

Opening with the title track, “Fields of Pannonia,” the ensemble revisits the sounds of Christian’s musical roots in Germany and Austria. His playing exudes the kind of passion that demands your undivided attention. Its generous spirit of sound envelops you and bathes you in vivid, dynamic trills and splashes of color and textures that only a masterful flautist can deliver. Exceptional solos from Christian Artmann’s bandmates add calming caresses that are not merely involving but virtually embrace the listener’s senses.

“Fum Fo Fi” also exudes the immaculate execution of Artmann’s countless twists and leaps, lulls and bursts that project his distinctive traits that his listeners can feel and relate to. He pushes his ensemble to answer with the same details as if each part was written especially for them. The challenges continue on “Sarabande” a beautiful piece that acts as a kind of quiet interlude before the even more intimate sound of “Sunya.” You can certainly feel the intimacy and relate to this very personal music.

It is apparent that Fields of Pannonia is music to be experienced and absorbed entirely. “Garuda’s Song,” is intriguing with piano, bass and drums weaving together – toying with one another, locking in the pocket before Christian Artmann enters with some very profound and speedy trills. He really makes his instrument sing in all registers.

“August,” which was written by Gregg Kallor is a pure jazz piece that provides just the right amount of cinematic sonics to convey the summer month. Artmann’s ensemble presents this song with special emphasis on the colors and textures that are both exciting and blissful to the listener.

Overall, Fields of Pannonia is as brilliant as it is different. It contains music that is exciting for the heart, mind and soul.