‘Thousand Shades of a Clown’ by Le Monde Merveilleux de Pépito is released from Challange Records
Pierre-Antoine Savoyat and Le Monde Merveilleux de Pépito present their latest album, Thousand Shades of a Clown, released on 23 January 2026 through Challenge Records.
Built around the evocative figure of the clown, the album explores themes of identity, vulnerability, and resilience through a refined and contemporary jazz language. Rather than theatrical excess, the music focuses on nuance — subtle shifts of tone, controlled tension, and emotional clarity.
Savoyat’s trumpet acts as the album’s narrative core, moving between introspective lyricism and understated intensity. The ensemble — Simon Groppe (piano), Fil Caporali (double bass), and Oscar Georges (drums) — demonstrates a finely balanced interplay shaped by precision and attentiveness. The ensemble is further enriched by an outstanding group of guest artists — Alexandra Grimal (saxophone), Lucia Pires (flute), and Lynn Cassiers (voice) — whose contributions expand the sonic spectrum and bring additional depth and textural contrast to the album.
Thousand Shades of a Clown stands as a carefully constructed recording that privileges atmosphere, space, and emotional focus — a release that further establishes Savoyat’s distinct artistic voice within today’s European jazz scene.
Album Information:
Artist: Pierre-Antoine Savoyat & Le Monde Merveilleux de Pépito
Title: Thousand Shades of a Clown
Label: Challenge Records
Release Date: 23 January 2026
Format: CD & Digital
Genre: Contemporary Jazz
Line-Up:
Le Monde Merveilleux de Pépito:
Pierre-Antoine Savoyat – trumpet
Simon Groppe – piano
Fil Caporali – double bass
Oscar Georges – drums
Guest Artists:
Alexandra Grimal – saxophone
Lucia Pires – flute
Lynn Cassiers – voice