Jasper Hoiby - 3Elements: Like Water (2024) Hi Res

Danish & London based bassist, Jasper Høiby, who made a name for himself with the high octane piano trio Phronesis, returns with the second album ‘Like Water’ with his new trio ‘3Elements’.

Since 2005, the Danish and London based bassist, composer and band leader, Jasper Høiby has become a name synonymous with a bold sound and a progressive and innovative style. With Phronesis, he carved out a distinct sound and identity, marked by intricate compositions and a dynamic interplay, through a decade of unparalleled musicianship both live and in the studio. Over the 6 six albums and relentless touring, they continued to push boundaries of piano trio format, earning them accolades, affirming their status as one of the most exciting trios on the European scene. Now, almost five years since Phronesis last captivated audiences, Høiby is unraveling a new chapter with his new trio, 3Elements, a project that aims to celebrate and explore the power, versatility, and energy of the trio with the same characteristic poise that Phronesis enjoyed yet with a more coherent and individualistic approach.

The trio, featuring the pianist Chaerin Im on piano and Jamie Peet on drums, alongside Høiby’s foundational bass, releases Like Water, an album that flows like its namesake, through a journey of composition and improvisation. For Jasper Høiby, three voices is a number of special symbolic significance of support, creativity, and the potential for discovery within the confines of three interconnected roles. As he explains, “A Piano trio is the ultimate format for me – it has everything you need to really express yourself – dynamically, texturally, rhythmically, melodic and harmonically, yet it’s nimble enough to go somewhere without any preconceived discussion or communication”.

3Elements, provide Jasper the freedom of expression while both Like Water and it’s debut album Earthness, featuring Noah Stone and Luca Carissa, is a testament to the strength of three. A hallmark of this trio is its adaptability and nimbleness in its lineup as much as the delicate balance between composed, preconceived ideas and improvisation. It’s a fine and delicate balance but ones that Hoiby revels in.

Known for his adept bass playing and visionary compositions, Høiby’s musical journey is marked by a fearless embrace of complexity and a determined commitment to pushing boundaries. Phronesis, celebrated for its empathetic interplay and adventurous improvisation, laid the groundwork for what Høiby seeks to explore further with 3Elements. This new project amplifies his quest for a more personal and nuanced expression within the piano trio format, marrying the intricate rhythms and harmonies he’s known for with a fresh, individualistic flair.

With “Like Water,” fans can anticipate a continuation of Høiby’s explorative spirit, yet with a twist that’s distinct to 3Elements. With Chaerin Im bringing her evocative piano stylings and Jamie Peet infusing dynamic drum rhythms, the trio delves into musical realms, where each track a testament to their collective prowess and individual voices.

Fans can expect an album that resonates with Høiby’s signature blend of accessibility and challenge, grounded in jazz’s rich traditions yet eager to explore uncharted territories. It’s this blend of the known and the new that promises to make “Like Water” a significant chapter in Høiby’s illustrious career, further cementing his position as a pioneering force in contemporary jazz. With 3Elements, Høiby is set to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike, offering a sonic experience that’s as refreshing and invigorating as the element it’s named after.