The two traditional Danish tunes are most welcome, adding a satisfying Scandinavian feel to the release. The class that this group oozes is reflected in their ability to play as one coherent unit with no participant dominating the rest. These extremely talented Danish players bring us an enthralling display of music-making which is supported by the presence of Swallow. What is remarkably fascinating is how Swallow never finds himself taking control.
His arrangements of "Tristesse," "Jeg er havren," "Jag vet en dejlig rosa" and "Lazy afternoon" by Jerome Moross all showcase his capability to piece together fresh takes of well-loved music. With a total of nine tracks, each has Ulrik as a performer but also as an arranger.
The Meeting with Steve Swallow also includes a track by Brazilian composer Milton Nascimento entitled "Tristesse." The album comprises a variety of pieces including two Swallow compositions, a collection of traditional Danish tunes and originals by Ulrik and Carla Bley. Having performed with familiar names such as Billy Preston, Knudsen is a fine addition to this quartet, bringing a new level of dexterity to the ensemble setting. The final member in this meeting is guitarist and fellow Dane, Niclas Knudsen. Meanwhile drummer Anders Mogensen's collaboration with Swallow also began in the '90s, his busy calendar saw him perform alongside musicians such as Jerry Bergonzi and Walt Weiskopf. The partnership between Danish saxophonist Hans Ulrik and American bassist Steve Swallow can be traced back to the late '90s when they toured Europe and recorded three albums including Tin Pan Aliens (Stunt Records, 2005).
0 kommentar(er)
