DIGIPACK EDITION

The Norwegian pianist, arranger and composer Espen Berg has been one of the most renowned representatives of the Scandinavian jazz scene for almost two decades. In the past he has worked with renowned musicians such as Silje Nergaard, Anders Jormin, Per Jorgensen, Hildegunn Oiseth, Arve Henriksen or Mathias Eick, played in formations such as Listen !, Green Serene, Kare Kolve Quartet or the Trondheim Jazz Orchestra and has released the two successful albums "Monster" (2015) and "Bolge" (2018) in a trio line-up in addition to his solo debut "Noctilucent" (2012)

Now, with "Free To Play", the musician, who is also active as a music lecturer, once again presents an album recorded in a trio line-up, on which he is accompanied by bassist Bardur Reinert Poulsen and drummer Simon Olderskog Albertsen, as on his two highly acclaimed predecessors. The trio, known for its spontaneously spirited interplay, presents nine compositions, all of which (with the exception of the joint work "Monolitt") originate from the compositional pen of the pianist stylistically influenced by Keith Jarrett and Brad Mehldau.

The result is music beyond all categories, a melodically and rhythmically highly complex fusion of lyrical sound aesthetics, romantic impressionistic elegance and powerful emotional jazz sounds (in the highly exciting border area between through-composed formalism and collective improvisation).

PERSONNEL:

• Espen Berg - (piano)
• Bárður Reinert Poulsen - (double bass)
• Simon Olderskog Albertsen - (drums)

Recorded November 25-26, 2018 at Nilento Studio, Gothenburg, Sweden.

TRACKS:

• 01. Monolitt
• 02. Skrivarneset
• 03. Kestrel
• 04. Camillas Sang
• 05. Gossipel
• 06. Episk Aggresiv Syndrom
• 07. ´Oumuamua
• 08. Meanwhile in Armenia
• 09. Furuberget