Nikolaj Hess - Spacelab & Strings (2021) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

The piano trio is one of the most flexible and dynamic vehicles for musical expression within the genre of jazz. The same can be said of the string quartet in the classical sphere. The intimate confines of both ensembles lead to a fantastic blend of group interplay and individuality expressed by the performers. Boundless possibilities of musical pathways within these combinations have made these the de facto ensembles for composers and performers within these genres.

Pianist/composer Nikolaj Hess has found much to say utilizing the piano trio and the string quartet over his career. Recently, it was his idea to interweave a string quartet together with a piano trio to create a septet, thus multiplying the colors and dynamism of sound that can be produced. Hess’s gorgeous new recording, Spacelab & Strings, brings two ensembles from two musical fields together to amplify his artistic vision in a unique, sweeping way.

Hess grew up in the musically rich environment of the Jutland peninsula of Denmark. The area is well known for its rich musical legacy and was also a regular destination for touring jazz musicians visiting Denmark. Hess’s study of piano and violin gave him a wide exposure to classical and jazz music. Hess eventually settled on piano as his main expressive voice but continued to love the sound of the violin, even going as far as trying to emulate the violin’s sound on the piano.

While growing up, Hess developed long standing musical relationships with bassist Anders Christensen and drummer Mikkel Hess (who is also Hess’s brother). The regular partnership led to a trio that switched leadership depending on projects but has ultimately come to be known as Spacelab. The ensemble’s time-honed rapport makes it an ideal amplifier of Hess’s folk-inspired, Scandinavian-tempered music.

TRACKLIST

01. Nikolaj Hess - ECM Country
02. Nikolaj Hess - Piece
03. Nikolaj Hess - Indigo Meadow
04. Nikolaj Hess - Ravel Reflections
05. Nikolaj Hess - Adagio
06. Nikolaj Hess - Trio2
07. Nikolaj Hess - Seven Ate Nine
08. Nikolaj Hess - Danish Accents Lost in the Bush (iabdyvwin)
09. Nikolaj Hess - Kontra Punk
10. Nikolaj Hess - Tinir
11. Nikolaj Hess - Trio1
12. Nikolaj Hess - Celeste
13. Nikolaj Hess - Black & White
14. Nikolaj Hess - Intro Exit



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