One thing is probably clearer today than ever before: The world is not only growing together, but also belongs together. This is just as evident in politics and business as it is in art and culture. And Enji is currently one of the most impressive examples of how different cultures can cross-pollinate to create something uniquely new. The singer of Mongolian origin lives in Munich and combines graceful vocal jazz with chamber folk and urtyn duu, a traditional form of music from the Central Asian country that is full of endless steppes. Influenced by greats of American jazz such as Ella Fitzgerald and Carmen McRae, Enji’s voice is at once graceful and warm, self-confident and restrained. With unusual time signatures, improvised brass parts, and a smoky, reflective salon atmosphere, her latest album, “Ulaan” (2023), is probably one of the most intimate jazz experiences that enthusiasts of the genre have been able to have lately. A warm recommendation, even for newcomers.