Record Reviews

HEIN WESTGAARD TRIO ~ FIRST AS FARCE NICE THINGS 011 (Barcode: 7041886101545) ~ NORWAY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023 This is the debut album by Norwegian guitarist / composer Hein WestgaardFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio format both bassist Petter AsbjornsenFind albums by this artist and Danish drummer Simon ForchhammerFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve short tracks, seven composed by Westgaard and five co-composed by him and Asbjornsen. The music, although based on composed ideas, is mostly spontaneously improvised, with a lot of freedom and space, but manages to create a coherent outcome. The sound is quite unique, minimalist and often contemplative, which is definitely not for a conventional Jazz listener, but people opened to Improvised Music should be able to enjoy this very much. Despite the fact that the music lacks an easily recognizable melodic basis, it flows lucidly and even pleasantly, resulting in a fascinating aural experience. The rapport between the trio members is excellent and each of them contributes his part in full accord with the others, respectfully and agreeably. The individual contributions by these young musicians are pretty impressive, and personally my favorite are the bass parts by Asbjornsen, which hold the music together splendidly. Overall, this is an impressive debut recording, which shows considerable potential and talent by the participants. The music is definitely for Free Jazz / Improvised Music enthusiasts, rather than for mainstream Jazz listeners, but it holds many fascinating moments. Well done!

Updated: 04/02/2024Posted: 04/02/2024

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