Maria Kvist - Shadows And Rain (2019)

Swedish jazz pianist, singer and composer Maria Kvist's fourth full-length album Shadows And Rain presents a rich, enticing and honest programme of her original vocal and instrumental compositions in English as well as Swedish, including invigorating fresh takes on a few American jazz evergreens. Kvist's subtle and brilliant pianism is marvelously paired with her articulate and virtuosic voice, adding weight to how reviewers have likened her to a "Swedish Diana Krall", and her work as a sideman on the road with many prominent artists over the years have forged her into a complete and nuanced musician. Together with Linus Kåse's ardent jazz sax, Robert Erlandsson's driving bass and Isak Andersson's propelling drums, she creates a soundscape of pure nerve, fun and imagination. First-class guest performers Ann-Sofi Söderqvist on the fluegelhorn and Filip Jers on the harmonica add some extra spice to the proceedings. Shadows And Rain is a lyrical and moving exploration of Nordic jazz as well as a testament to Kvist's compositional skills and exceptional ability as a performer.