Record Reviews
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  | AINA FRIDEN ~ UP HIGH
LOSEN 176 (Barcode: 7090025831768) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2017
This is the debut album by Norwegian vocalist Aina FridenFind albums by this artist recorded in a quintet setting with Swedish pianist Ulf Johansson WerreFind albums by this artist, who also plays trombone on one track, and the trio led by Norwegian guitarist / composer Frode KjekstadFind albums by this artist, with bassist Roger WilliamsenFind albums by this artist and drummer Hermund NygardFind albums by this artist. Together they perform nine songs, six of which are standards and three are originals composed by Kjekstad (two featuring lyrics by Friden).
The music is mostly Swing / mainstream Jazz, a bit "retro" stylistically, but in the best possible meaning of the phrase. The arrangements are fresh and sparkling and the execution perfect in every way. The original compositions are every bit as wonderful as the standards.
Friden´s interpretations of the songs are a bit limited and she does not venture beyond the typical role of a Swing singer or take any chances, but at the same time she does exactly what is right for this kind of evocative atmosphere. Her tone is pleasant, her pronunciation accurate and her emotional interpretations of the lyrics are just right without unnecessary theatrics.
The instrumental parts are stunningly played by the quartet, with one great solo chasing another and rhythm section supporting the music amicably and keeping the time straight as an arrow. Both the piano and guitar parts are wonderful examples of great taste and elegance, with Kjekstad´s unique stylistic approach to the guitar being especially strikingly impressive.
Overall this is a wonderful Swing vocal album, which should satisfy all vocal Jazz connoisseurs, breaking a few hearts here and there on the way. I had a great fun listening to this music and fond memories of times long gone swept my mind repeatedly. They don´t make music like this any more (or at least very rarely), so don´t miss this album if you are a romantic at heart. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 05/10/2017Posted: 05/10/2017 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINE GAUSTAD ANDERSSEN ~ HEIM
LOSEN 165 (Barcode: 7090025831652) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2016
This is the debut album as a leader by Norwegian vocalist / pianist / songwriter Gine Gaustad AnderssenFind albums by this artist, on which she is supported by a Norwegian / Swedish team of musicians: guitarist Carl Emil SvenssonFind albums by this artist, bassists Fredrik NilssonFind albums by this artist and Johannes LundbergFind albums by this artist, drummers Hermund NygardFind albums by this artist and Martin OhmanFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Arve HenriksenFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Thomas GustafssonFind albums by this artist. She performs eight songs, six of which are composed by her and feature her lyrics, one song features her lyrics to an Astor PiazzollaFind albums by this artist composition and one song is by Norwegian singer / songwriter Kari BremnesFind albums by this artist. The lyrics are in Norwegian and in English.
The songs are all stunningly beautiful, intimate and lyrical and the vocalist performs them with a minimalistic accompaniment mostly of just guitar, bass and drums. On some songs her voice is multi-tracked to create a vocal harmony effect. The entire album is soaked in deep melancholy and introvert unfussiness, which is immensely effective, using a most convincing "more is less" modus operandi.
Although not Jazz per se, this music is closely associated with the Jazz idiom, as it possesses an intrinsic feeling of Swing, and of course the presence of the Jazz musicians on board also makes a significant impact. Regardless of the labeling one might associate with this album, it is a true joy and I wish many more albums like that were recorded.
Overall this is a very unique collection of gorgeous songs, performed by a great team of musicians and sung by the person who composed the material, in a most non-pretentious personal way, which makes the listener´s heart melt. Loved every minute if it! Well done!
| | Updated: 31/01/2017Posted: 31/01/2017 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
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