Seeing (LP)

With Seeing, Tord Gustavsen begins an intricate new chapter in his series of acclaimed trio recordings, initiated in 2003 with Changing Places - an album that is today considered a classic. The new recording with its compact, concentrated song forms „reflects my personal development as I get older, going for the essentials in life and music", says the Norwegian pianist. Throughout five originals, two cantatas by Johann Sebastian Bach, a traditional Norwegian church hymn, plus the 19th century English chorale „Nearer My God, to Thee", Tord together with long-time ally Jarle Vespestad on drums and Steinar Raknes on double bass digs deep into his unique blend of jazz, blues, gospel, Scandinavian folk and church music. „Cherishing the melodies", as Tord puts it, the group's interplay draws strength from restraint, patiently building the music toward its climaxes, while Gustavsen, a true master of the trio format, shapes the whole with his delicate touch and subtle gospel glow.