Icelandic guitarist’s quintet mixes offbeat grooves and improvisational freedom, rock extraversion and jazz discipline.

The second recording for Songlines by the guitarist of Jim Black’s Alasnoaxis is very different from the improv/ambient/collage approach of Tyft, even though its trio of Jensson, Black and Andrew D’Angelo (alto sax/bass clarinet) is back. Here an acoustic quintet runs with Jensson’s challenging compositions, giving them a rhythmic flair and melodic/harmonic interest that might recall Chris Speed’s Yeah No in its balance between offbeat grooves and improvisational freedom, rock extraversion and jazz discipline. Intricate counterpoint from the horns, abrasive guitar solos, constantly shifting metres, and Black’s time-bending percussive commentary complete the picture. With a stark but tender emotional underpinning that engages the listener, Jensson lays out his vision of jazz present and jazz future, even if he questions whether jazz is a useful descriptor for his music. With Herb Robertson, trumpet and Trevor Dunn, bass. Recorded and mixed to 2 + 5 channel DSD.

Track Listing

• Letta
• Larf
• Mayla Mayla
• Correct Me if I’m Right
• Abbi
• Grinning
• Davu
• Gobbles
• Everything is Temporary

Additional Details

Label:Songlines

Genre:Jazz

Run Time:53 mins

Release Date:02/03/04

UPC:774355154724