Over the past five years, Norwegian pianist Tord Gustavsen has released three highly acclaimed albums on the ECM label. His jazz music is inspired by Scandinavian folk music, gospel, hymns and impressionism. Gustavsen is bringing four musicians with him, including bassist Mats Eilertsen (who has also played with Wolfert Brederode) and Tore Brunborg, a saxophonist who could have been the son of Jan Garbarek). The sound of the Tord Gustavsen Ensemble is also determined by singer Kristin Asbjørnsen. The music is tender with a subtle swing. Something special is that, although the sound is quite somber, it still sounds warm and almost romantic. The melodious sound is nonetheless very contemporary and touches on chamber jazz. The musical press has praised the sober style of Gustavsen, especially for being able to say so much with so few notes.
