Black Swan

Album Description

Dive into the world of contemporary jazz with Thomas Agergaard's "Black Swan," a captivating album released in 2018 under the Storyville label. This 12-track masterpiece, spanning 56 minutes, is a testament to Agergaard's prowess as a jazz artist, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit within the genre.

"Black Swan" is a collaborative effort featuring the Kathrine Windfeld Big Band, blending the rich textures of free jazz with more traditional jazz elements. The album opens with the title track, "Black Swan," setting the stage for a journey through Agergaard's unique musical landscape. Standout tracks like "Human Be Legends" and "Different Corner" highlight the album's dynamic range, while the "Op-us 1 Suite" and "Op-us 2 Suite" offer a multi-part exploration of Agergaard's compositional depth.

Recorded and released in Denmark, "Black Swan" is a celebration of jazz innovation, featuring a blend of improvisational brilliance and structured composition. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an engaging and enriching listening experience. The diverse tracklist ensures there's something for every jazz lover, from the experimental to the classically inclined.

March 2, 2018

(P) 2018 Storyville

About Thomas Agergaard

Thomas Agergaard is a versatile and experimental Danish composer, saxophonist, and flutist renowned for his distinctive Nordic sound and deep roots in the American jazz tradition. Born in 1962, Agergaard has honed his craft over decades, collaborating with legendary musicians such as John Tchicai, Miroslav Vitous, and Marilyn Mazur. His music seamlessly blends jazz with avant-garde and classical elements, reflecting influences from Wayne Shorter and John Coltrane to John Cage.

Agergaard's career is marked by innovation and versatility. He has served as a composer-in-residence and has been recognised with numerous awards, including the Danish Jazz Federation's Honour Prize and multiple grants from the Danish Arts Foundation. Whether performing with his quartet, collaborating with other renowned artists, or composing for unique ensembles like the trio that incorporates paper into their performances, Thomas Agergaard continues to push the boundaries of jazz, creating music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.