I've known Ralph Beerkircher since 1988. We both studied classical music in Aachen and quickly discovered that we had a common passion:
improvised music.
Almost ten years later in 1997 Ralph formed his quartet.
Besides us two Roland Höppner and Volker Heinze were also in the band and have remained so till today. In 2001 we recorded the CD 'Morphin'.
Over time I have grown very fond of the music composed exclusively by Ralph, because in my opinion he succeeds in an exceptionally way in building a bridge between completely noted, with quasi chamber music like performed music and a creative candour. It stayes very exciting for the player and listener,to weave the spontaneous improvisation with the composer's strict 'style'.

Press review:

'Whoever feels like experiencing something breathtakingly surprising in their scene shouldn't, if possible, shy away from listening to the many new releases, especially in the Rhine area. Music improvised by the young is in a constant movement and every day creates something new. One starts with Ralph Beerkircher and 'Morphin', a new masterpiece of the small, but good label NRW-jazz from Essen. The Cologne based Ralf Beerkircher quartet presents itself with a rare clear structure and simultaneously extraordinary dynamism. In his unusual compositional style one notes the breadth of his knowledge, almost moving into new music. Complicated but always comprehensive points of departure that don't shy away from exciting funk or floating swing, these are the special qualities of this recording. Beerkirchers communication with the tenor and soprano saxophone of Claudius Valk is also outstanding. He is a special musician on the new scene, something already proven by various CDs and live performances. Bass player Volker Heinze and drummer Roland Höppner present the second duo of this quartet of many dynamic ideas and sounds.'
Hansjürgen von Osterhausen in JAZZPODIUM)

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