Tord Gustavsen Ensemble: Extended Circle at Howard Assembly Room

About

he slowly turning, luminous music of Norwegian pianist Tord Gustavsen has, without fanfare developed a staggering depth of meaning and confidence. His quartet with Tore Brunborg, Mats Eilertsen and long-term associate Jarle Vespestad, has matured into a group whose interactions draw their strength from restraint.
‘For a modern take on the European jazz tradition, this quartet is hard to beat.’ The Arts Desk
The material for this one-off UK date ranges from gospel-influenced pieces and glowing group improvisation, to the Norwegian traditional I Know A Castle In Heaven. Drawn mainly from his latest ECM album, its striking ‘Nordic-Caribbean-Gospel-Impressionist-Bluesy touch’ is reminiscent of his much-lauded debut album.