Rolf Thofte - Martha's Dance (2025)

Trailblazing outlet for forward-thinking Danish Jazz, April Records proudly presents the debut from trumpeter/composer Rolf Thofte; a vivid and personal record that blends lyrical melodies, inventive rhythms, and subtle harmonic exploration. Written while Thofte adjusted to fatherhood – the album captures moments of joy, reflection, and experimentation, brought to life by a handpicked quintet of Denmark’s most exciting young jazz talents.

The title track is a tribute to Thofte’s three-year-old daughter – a playful, clapping, goat-hoof-stomping tune in quirky 5/4 that channels the spirit of childhood joy and spontaneity. “It’s just a fun tune to play, and I feel like it really captures Martha’s spirit,” says Thofte. “This band came together at a time when I was trying to get a foothold in a new life situation as a father, so it felt perfect to make this the title track.”

The album moves between moods and textures with elegance: from the rich harmonic language of “Vice Versa” – inspired by Wayne Shorter’s ability to cast simple melodies in shifting harmonic light – to the understated power of “Changing Tides,” a piece about imperceptible gradual changes in our lives, nature, and politics. “Bendico,” written in 15 minutes as a conservatory assignment, showcases Thofte’s gift for strong melodic statements, while “Dunkelflaute” evokes melancholic Nordic greyness through sparse, emotive phrasing.

From the swaggering second-line feel of “The Big 5” to the hypnotic pulse of “All…”, the album explores rhythm as both a driving force and a canvas for creative interplay. Throughout, Thofte’s trumpet and flugelhorn lead the ensemble with warmth and clarity.

The quintet features some of Copenhagen’s top next-generation players: Andreas Toftemark (tenor saxophone), a powerhouse improviser and composer who brings NYC-honed energy and detail to the group dynamic. Rasmus Sørensen (piano), a rising star of the European scene, known for his sensitive, exploratory playing and fearless interaction. Jakob Roland (bass) and Henrik Holst (drums) – two of Thofte’s oldest musical collaborators – round out the rhythm section with deep swing, taste, and musical empathy.Martha’s Dance is a confident, cohesive debut – rooted in tradition yet full of forward-thinking ideas. With his nuanced writing and expressive playing, Rolf Thofte announces himself as a compelling new voice on the European jazz landscape.

Rolfe Thofte, trumpet & flugelhorn
Andreas Toftemark, tenor saxophone
Rasmus Sørensen, piano
Jakob Roland, double bass
Henrik Holst Hansen, drums & percussion

Recorded December 18th-19th 2024 at The Village Recording, Copenhagen, Denmark
Engineered by Thomas Vang
Mixed by Henrik Holst Hansen
Mastered by John Fomsgaard

TRACKLIST

1. Rolf Thofte - The Big 5
2. Rolf Thofte - Changing Tides
3. Rolf Thofte - All…
4. Rolf Thofte - Bendico
5. Rolf Thofte - Vice Versa
6. Rolf Thofte - Martha's Dance
7. Rolf Thofte - Dunkelflaute