Record Reviews

JOACHIM LYCHE ~ PRIMAL HEURISTICS LOSEN 322 (Barcode: 7090025833229) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2025 Released: 2026 This is the debut album by young Norwegian Jazz guitarist / composer Joachim LycheFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio, which also includes bassist Una Morelia Bustos RekstenFind albums by this artist and drummer Bendik JohnkFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, six of which are original compositions and two are standards. The original compositions are interesting and often quite unusual in their conceptual approach, melody based but allowing a lot of space. Lyche is obviously the main performer, amicably supported by the rhythm section, which has little opportunity to solo but keeps the music well on tracks. The guitar stylistics are deeply rooted in the great American legacy of Jazz guitar (Barney KesselFind albums by this artist / Wes MontgomeryFind albums by this artist), which is almost completely unused by contemporary guitarists, which of course is a great joy. Lyche does not copy the traditional approach, but absorbs it in his individual style, and thankfully avoids completely any Fusionistic doodling, which also is most welcome. Overall, this is certainly a most impressive debut recording, which demonstrates a sophisticated amalgam of the Jazz guitar tradition with contemporary trends, creating a fresh and pleasing listening experience and a desire to hear more. Well done!

Updated: 21/05/2026Posted: 21/05/2026

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