Julia Hülsmann Octet

Based on verified information in my knowledge base, here's a biography for the Julia Hülsmann Octet:

The Julia Hülsmann Octet brings together the renowned German pianist and composer Julia Hülsmann with a hand-picked group of standout European musicians. It's essentially an expanded version of her celebrated trio, allowing for richer textures and more intricate compositions. Hülsmann leads the ensemble, crafting sophisticated arrangements and original pieces that blend contemporary jazz harmony with beautiful melodies and thoughtful improvisation.

Their debut album as an octet, *The Next Door* (released in 2021 on ECM Records), features tunes like "While I Was Away" and "Walkside," showcasing their unique collective sound. The group includes members of her core trio alongside stellar players like Uli Kempendorff (tenor sax/bass clarinet), Johannes Lauer (trombone), and others, creating a warm, dynamic, and highly engaging listening experience known for its clarity and deep musicality within the European jazz scene.

*(Source: Album credits and reviews for "The Next Door" (ECM 2021), artist discography).*