Alexi Tuomarila - Departing the Wasteland (2024) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

The album traces its origins to two key events. First, from the dark days of Covid, when the experience of isolation, recognition of ageing, career insecurity and imposter syndrome forced Alexi to reconsider his role as an artist, a Finnish pianist and musician and finally led to rehabilitation and redemption, reigniting his love for the music and returning to a more pure practice – departing the wasteland indeed. Second, a commission to write for trio and symphony orchestra led to Alexi rethinking the way he composed: a change from the less structured practice of writing heads and improvising, to writing considered parts, thinking more deeply about the music as a whole and group rehearsals.

The actual recording took place in Porto – Alexi was struggling to find a studio free in Finland with a great grand piano when Andre suggested the Cara Studios in his home city – but the music is powerfully in the Finnish tradition, deeply emotional and impressionist. Alexi’s extraordinary talent still shines brightly, but it’s now informed by a new depth and maturity and his conception and writing illustrate the development as a man and a musician he has undergone.

Musically, the long serving trio mesh beautifully, providing a springboard both for Alexi’s powerful and emotional work, and for Andre’s incisive electric guitar. Depth comes in the form of complex arrangements that are never busy, washes of synth and post-production work which take it out of the realm of piano-led jazz into something much more interesting. In fighting his demons Alexi has produced a work of art that reflects his own growth as a pianist and composer and one that deserves, and will find a wider audience.

TRACKLIST

1. Alexi Tuomarila - Towards Dark Light
2. Alexi Tuomarila - Gaman
3. Alexi Tuomarila - Watchtower Hill
4. Alexi Tuomarila - Inner Wasteland
5. Alexi Tuomarila - August
6. Alexi Tuomarila - Moreeni
7. Alexi Tuomarila - Aether
8. Alexi Tuomarila - Circle



Thanks to the Original customer.