…The album exudes serenity and calmness.
Naxos: NXN4006
Marius Gjersø: trumpet, fx; Kaja Fjellberg Pettersen: ‘cello; Sebastian Haugen: double bass; Jo Berger Myhre: electric bass
The press release labels this album as jazz, ambient. Knowing that Gjersø is a Norwegian trumpet player, you might expect a lush, bell-like tone that characterises a particular approach to trumpet playing from this part of the world.
This is not the dismiss the challenge of creating such clarity and Gjersø is a master of his instrument. For this alone, the album is worth hearing. But what really sets these pieces apart is the manner in which the compositions effortlessly blend trumpet (and strings) with the layers of electronic effects to produce a stunning musical experience. Inspired by a trip to Japan (with the titles of the 9 pieces being Japanese words, and each piece seeking to invoke the sensation that each word expresses) the album exudes serenity and calmness.
This is not to say that there is not soul or passion in the pieces; often the roiling electronics and massing of beats build to crescendo, but like the experience of a strong wind blowing at the edge of a forest that lessens as you move deeper into the trees, this dies to a murmur as the piece progresses.
Reviewed by Chris Baber
