This new album "As Good As It Gets"that was released on October 6, 2023, showcases a captivating collaboration between the Espen Eriksen Trio and Andy Sheppard. This live performance experience brings together the best of Norwegian jazz with contemporary influences, creating a truly remarkable musical journey.
Key Takeaways:
The Espen Eriksen Trio, consisting of Espen Eriksen on piano, Lars Tormod Jenset on bass, and Andreas Bye on drums, partners with saxophonist Andy Sheppard for their album "As Good As It Gets."
The trio's melodic sense and vibe, combined with Sheppard's inimitable playing, create magic on this album.
Released as a follow-up to their first album "Perfectly Unhappy," this new album showcases a lively and sunny mood while retaining the trio's Nordic melancholic sound.
The Espen Eriksen Trio has gained a global following through their captivating live performances.
Andy Sheppard, an esteemed saxophone player with a career spanning over four decades, adds his expertise and creativity to this collaboration.
The Melodic Jazz Magic of "As Good As It Gets"
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of melodic jazz as the Espen Eriksen Trio and Andy Sheppard weave their musical magic in the album "As Good As It Gets." This exceptional jazz trio delivers mesmerizing instrumental compositions that will captivate your senses and leave you craving for more.
The Espen Eriksen Trio, consisting of Espen Eriksen on piano, Lars Tormod Jenset on bass, and Andreas Bye on drums, has teamed up with UK saxophone player Andy Sheppard for their highly anticipated new album. Building on the success of their first album "Perfectly Unhappy," released five years ago, this latest offering showcases a slightly more lively and sunny mood while staying true to the trio's signature Nordic melancholic sound.
Eriksen, known for his catchy and infectious tunes, artfully combines his compositions with Sheppard's inimitable saxophone playing, resulting in pure melodic jazz bliss. The trio's minimalistic approach allows ample room for their individual virtuosity to shine while maintaining a harmonious balance in their musical interplay.
With their impeccable musicianship and profound understanding of each other's musical nuances, the Espen Eriksen Trio and Andy Sheppard create an album that exudes warmth, emotion, and a sense of artistic synergy. It's no wonder that this collaboration has garnered attention worldwide, with the trio touring across four continents and becoming a popular concert attraction in various countries.
"As Good As It Gets" is not only a testament to the talent and creativity of these exceptional musicians but also a reflection of their dedication to the contemporary jazz genre. Released on the acclaimed Rune Grammofon label, this album marks their seventh collaboration together and further solidifies their status as prominent figures in the jazz scene.
The Talents Behind the Collaboration
Meet the extraordinary talents behind the collaboration - Andy Sheppard, a renowned figure in jazz music with a career spanning over four decades, and the Espen Eriksen Trio, rooted in the rich heritage of Norwegian jazz. Together, they have crafted a new album that beautifully blends their individual artistry, resulting in a captivating exploration of contemporary jazz that will leave you craving for more.
Andy Sheppard, the UK saxophone player, was immediately drawn to the melodic sense and vibe of the Espen Eriksen Trio. Thrilled to be invited to guest with them in 2016, Sheppard brings his inimitable playing style and influences from his extensive jazz background. With a career that encompasses collaborations with legendary artists such as George Russell, Gil Evans, and Carla Bley, Sheppard adds depth and nuance to the trio's sound.
“I knew from the first time I heard the trio play that I would fit right in. I loved the melodic sense and vibe and was thrilled when I was invited to guest with the trio in London in 2016”.
The Espen Eriksen Trio, consisting of Espen Eriksen on piano, Lars Tormod Jenset on bass, and Andreas Bye on drums, is deeply rooted in the Norwegian jazz tradition. Their music reflects the melancholic and introspective qualities often associated with Nordic jazz. Eriksen's catchy tunes, combined with the trio's minimalistic approach, create a unique musical experience that resonates with audiences around the world.
The new album, titled "As Good As It Gets," is their follow-up to their first album "Perfectly Unhappy" released five years ago. Showcasing a slightly more lively and sunny mood while maintaining their signature Nordic melancholic sound, this album is a testament to the trio's growth and evolution as a band. With Sheppard's collaboration, they push the boundaries of contemporary jazz, creating an enchanting musical journey that will captivate jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Tracklist
01 – The Other Side of Melancholy
02 – Endless
03 – As Good As It Gets
04 – Sticks and Stones
05 – Pressure
06 – The American
07 – Drifting Clouds
