There seem to be few subjects that do not interest my friend Tobias Lindstad. He is well-versed in literature, art, and philosophy, he throws himself into debates with an open mind and has kept his fascination for the mysteries of the universe. Above all, he displays a nearly all-encompassing appetite for good music in the most diverse genres. He never stops finding inspiration in classical and modern chamber music, in cool jazz and free-form improvisation, in avantgarde rock, in folk music, and in subtle pop melodies; really, he finds inspiration in all kinds of beautiful, strange, challenging and/or alluring music.

Harald Bergersen is one of today’s jazz musicians with the lengthiest high-level activity. Born in 1937, a professional musician since he was 18 years old, he started with clarinet as his main instrument, but also played bass clarinet, flute and alto/baritone/soprano saxophones. A ‘gentle’ musician inspired by Stan Getz, imagine his great surprise when one December night in 1959, playing at a restaurant in Oslo – none other than Getz himself arrived for a listen! Harald played for fun with Kjell Karlsen’s well-known big band (1959–60), but as a professional musician played with Oslo Blåsekvintett/Blåsesolister (1963–73), Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra (1966–68) and the Norwegian Broadcasting Orchestra (1970–77).

Since releasing These Human Beings (2015) and Legacy (2018), Pericopes+1 have been rigorously touring the world, despite living oceans apart — New York City, Paris and Milano. The saxophone, piano and drums power-trio “demonstrate power and intention” (Downbeat – USA) plus grit and creativity that has earned recognition from both industry pros and fans. This “cleverly unorthodox trio” (Musica Jazz – Italy) has been described as “an original, stylistically interesting” (Concerto – Austria) cross-genre band that “belongs to a new generation” (Jazz ‘N’ More – Switzerland) of European jazz.

This album comprises music inspired by the great Ahmad Jamal and his elegant arrangements of popular jazz standards. From 1958-1961 Jamal played with bassist Israel Corsby and drummer Vernel Fournier. This legendary trio was described as playing bright and light swing music with phrasing and harmony from the bebop area and at the same time clear parallel to classical music. Bassist Andreas Dreier has once again brought his trio together. After amazing critics from the first CD «Poinciana» (2014) Andreas Dreier Trio is now ready with the follow-up. Once again the music is arrangements from Jamals piano trio translated into guitar trio.