Christian Wallumrød Ensemble

Beautiful grooves and silences Christian Wallumrød Ensemble has always been a favourite here at the venue. In May they released the beautiful album Non Sonett, which for us became the very sound of warm spring and long evenings. But it's also a fine autumn record, now that we've rediscovered it! Aftenposten's reviewer agreed with us, giving it top marks under the headline 'When music becomes living art'. Since 2014 the ensemble has consisted of Espen Reinertsen, Eivind Lønning, Tove Törngren Brun and Per Oddvar Johansen, in addition to Christian Wallumrød himself. These five are among the country's foremost and most inventive jazz musicians. Even with a greater use of subtle electronics, the ensemble is immediately recognisable. The music is characterised by reduction, clarity and a focus on sound details, with melodies and structures that gradually emerge through texture, pauses and timbres. Slowly, melodies and grooves build into themes so beautiful that at times you have to swallow to avoid being overwhelmed when the threads come together. The music is challenging and beautiful; we can hear jazz, even blues, but most of all we hear an ensemble working together as a distinctive, improvising whole. Christian Wallumrød Ensemble always means new songs — come and hear them being created! Christian Wallumrød – piano, harmonium, electronics Espen Reinertsen – saxophone, recorder Eivind Lønning – trumpet, electronics Tove Törngren Brun – cello, electronics Per Oddvar Johansen – drums, vibraphone, electronics Photo: Carsten Aniksdal