"Tales of the old world" is the name of the latest project led by composer/pianist Peter Zihlmann. Other than his former projects with small groups Zihlmann this time presents a 75-minute work for small jazz orchestra, which he exclusively composed for his newly formed ensemble (TOW orchestra). A larger group offers a lot more possibilities to the composer and leaves thus room for different sounds and moods, which is in this case reflected in the great variety as well as structural difference of the individual compositions. All pieces were written on a 3-month journey through Europe, during which Zihlmann got his inspiration from the different places he visited. The here released work consists of 3 sections (Helvetia, Caledonia, Dalmacija), each of them again divided into different parts. Besides strictly composed arrangements there is always room left for improvisation, where the musicians can take their personal turns and develop their own concept of the song. Although the composition is evidently written in a jazzy style, the listener will more than once detect some classical, rock or folk elements. Where shortly before the orchestra was a real big band, the brass instruments suddenly resound as tender alphorns and later again menacing rolls of thunder. The rhythm section switches in child's play manner from atmospheric sound colours of a Nordic landscape to a hot cooking groove. The strings again add to it with their full palette of sounds, from opulently solemn to subtle and fragile and even to fiery Balkan-like emotions. With all the skill and flexibility the 13 musicians show on this record, one could get the impression that this band has no limits.