Helsinki-based drummer Joonas Leppänen introduces Alder Ego, his quartet formation bringing together four major talents from the buzzing Finnish jazz scene. Here, Leppänen is joined by trumpeter Tomi Nikku (of Bowman Trio), saxophonist Jarno Tikka and bassist Teemu Åkerblom.
Together they create forward thinking jazz music of the now: melodic, flowing, and full of surprises. The music moves forward naturally, carrying with it multiple levels of discovery. Leppänen's musical vision has cubist undertones, and the Alder Ego tracks takes unexpected turns yet maintain their melodic clarity at all times. Each member brings forth his soloistic prowess, with the frontline of Tikka and Nikku on sax and trumpet, respectively, shining through. That being said, this is small group jazz at its best: lean yet multilayered, melodic yet challenging, and ultimately based on teamwork with very rewarding results indeed.
"Flight", released digitally on July 25, the first taste of the Alder Ego album "II" to be released by We Jazz Records on October 26 on black and white vinyl editions (including printed inner sleeve with liner notes and full download), CD and digitally.
credits
released October 26, 2018
Alder Ego: Joonas Leppänen, drums / Jarno Tikka, sax / Tomi Nikku, trumpet / Teemu Åkerblom, bass + Ilkka Uksila, vibes
Composed by Joonas Leppänen
Produced by Joonas Leppänen & Matti Nives
Recorded & mixed by Tuukka Tervo
Mastered by Jukka Sarapää & Juho Luukkainen
Design by Matti Nives
Photography by Henri Hämäläinen & Mathias Foster
Liner Notes by Ami Vuorinen
His remixed, remastered and expanded debut album. As always with him, 60s kind of "spiritual" jazz. Excellent music/musicianship!
And exactly one of these jazz albums to play to your jazz-fearing friends (those of the "jazz has no melodei and is so so stressful to listen to" conviction) ;-) Carsten Pieper
They explore areas of groove-based improvised jazz - Yes, I totally agree. That is what they do. The songs are based on simple phrases from which they develop complex, touching and inspiring music. Thanks for the spirit. freejazzy