Hyperborean

Album Description

Arild Andersen's "Hyperborean" is a captivating journey into the realm of free jazz, released in 1997 under the prestigious ECM Records label. This album, spanning a concise yet impactful 47 minutes, features 12 tracks that showcase Andersen's mastery of the bass and his unique approach to improvisational music. The album opens with "Patch Of Light 1," setting a contemplative tone that carries through the entire collection. Standout tracks like "Hyperborean" and "Infinite Distance" highlight Andersen's ability to blend intricate melodies with a sense of spaciousness, creating a sonic landscape that is both intimate and expansive. The inclusion of pieces like "Duke Vinaccia" and "Vanishing Waltz" adds a touch of classical elegance, while tracks such as "Dragon Dance" and "Stillness" delve into more abstract and experimental territories. "Hyperborean" is a testament to Arild Andersen's artistic vision, offering a rich and immersive listening experience that will appeal to both jazz enthusiasts and those seeking something fresh and innovative.

September 1, 1997

℗ 1997 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Arild Andersen

Arild Andersen is a Norwegian jazz bassist and composer, renowned as one of Europe's leading figures in the genre. Born in Strømmen, Norway, in 1945, Andersen's career spans over five decades, marked by his distinctive warm tone and innovative approach to the double bass. He began his musical journey as a guitarist but transitioned to the bass, becoming a pivotal figure in the international jazz scene. Andersen's discography is extensive, with over fifty albums as a sideman and twelve as a leader on the prestigious ECM Records. He has collaborated with jazz legends such as Don Cherry, Jan Garbarek, Chick Corea, and Sonny Rollins, among many others. Known for his ability to blend traditional Norwegian folk music with improvised jazz, Andersen's work is a testament to his versatility and creativity. His ensembles, including the Arild Andersen Group, continue to captivate audiences with their dynamic performances and insightful compositions. Andersen's contributions to jazz have solidified his status as a true master of the double bass.