Record Reviews

BRIDGES ~ BRIDGES WITH SEAMUS BLAKE AMP 008 (Barcode: 662578831013) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016 This is the debut album by Norwegian Jazz quartet BridgesFind albums by this artist, led by drummer Anders ThorenFind albums by this artist and also including trumpeter Hayden PowellFind albums by this artist, pianist Espen BergFind albums by this artist and bassist Ole Morten VaganFind albums by this artist. The quartet is joined by NY based (born in London, raised in Vancouver) saxophonist Seamus BlakeFind albums by this artist and together as a classic quintet they perform ten pieces, nine of which were individually or collectively composed by the quintet members. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, with the usual spectacular sonic quality. The music is a superb example of modern European Jazz, with a tinge of Nordic melancholy, but nor really a typical Scandinavian outing, probably due to Blake´s presence. Based on firm melodic basis, the music allows enough space and freedom to appear airy and enables the individual players to express their statements. Three of the pieces are collective improvisations, with emphasizes the diversity and openness of the music. The individual performances are all first rate, which is hardly surprising from musicians of this statue. Blake delivers his velvety phrases, which are always right on the money, but he is not taking the centre of the stage on this album, which is by all means a collective effort. Powell plays some great trumpet lines, which are a delight and Berg masterly creates the harmonic layer upon the music smoothly flows on, throwing in a few breathtaking solos. The rhythm section is inventively supportive and deeply involved within the music, as usual with European Jazz, which sees the rhythm section as an integral part of the music making process. Overall this is a superb album from start to finish, which offers excellent music and superb execution, topped with fabulous sound quality. Jazz connoisseurs can hardly expect a better "deal" and therefore are wholeheartedly invited to check this album out at the first opportunity; satisfaction guaranteed! The album was released on a young Norwegian record label, called AMPFind albums on this label Music & Records, which is consistently releasing excellent productions since day one and is also wholeheartedly recommended to be followed.

Updated: 24/07/2017Posted: 24/07/2017

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