Markus Kaardal - Kaarma (2024) [Hi-Res]

This album is the result of several years of trying to combine modern dynamic jazz with a rock-inspired language. Our goal was to achieve this without compromising either tradition. The compositions were written over a period of almost eight years, with many undergoing significant adjustments to become what you hear on this record. A central theme of the album is my struggle to balance and blend jazz and rock influences. We aim to do this while still sounding organic and natural. The challenge is to write pieces that can work within more traditional jazz ensembles and aesthetics, and then perform them with an overdriven bass sound. We also focus on dynamic playing, pushing loudness and intensity to explore new territory. Each musician in the band contributes their own unique personality and voice. Oskar is a melodic and attentive saxophonist who blends seamlessly with the guitar. His background in classical music is evident in his playing. Torjus is a bass player with a deep groove and rich tone, without overusing the lower frequencies. Tobias is a dynamic and responsive drummer, knowing exactly when to shut up and when to play loud and fast.

The opening track, «Fotspor,» is a tribute to one of my greatest heroes and inspirations, John Coltrane, incorporating some of his harmonic ideas. This leads into «Banjogoblins,» another homage, this time to some of my favorite guitar players. «Heim» was written during an eight-hour train journey home. The tune is intended to create a vast dynamic contour, representing the polarity of the band. The tracks «Evy,» «Willbu,» «Limbo,» and «Sporenstreks» are all dedicated to people and places that hold special meaning to me. Finally, we end this jazz-rock buffet with «Wellington,» which reflects my passion for cooking.

Markus Kaardal, guitar
Oskar Goedvriend Lindberget, tenor saxophone
Torjus Gravir Klykken, bass
Tobias Rønnevig, drums

Recorded January 2024 by Dag Erik Johansen at Athletic Sound, Halden, Norway
Mixed by Håvard Caspersen June 2024, Drammen, Norway
Mastered July 2024 by Frode Berg at Your Sound Mastering, Spikkestad, Norway
Produced by Markus Kaardal
Executive producer Odd Gjelsnes