Keys

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde world of Søren Kjærgaard with "Keys," a captivating double-album released on January 30, 2006, via ILK Music. This 21-track collection, spanning a total of 1 hour and 9 minutes, showcases Kjærgaard's mastery of free jazz and avant-garde music, all performed on the piano. The album is split into two discs: the first is a standard-length CD featuring a series of intricate and expressive solo piano pieces, while the second is an 18-minute mini-CD that offers a more concise and intense listening experience.

"Keys" opens with "Night & Day," setting the tone for the eclectic mix of standards and original compositions that follow. Tracks like "Yesterdays" and "What's New" offer familiar melodies reimagined through Kjærgaard's unique lens, while pieces such as "Mr. Tutu's Dance Cycle" and "Brothersister" delve into more experimental territory. The album also includes a two-part suite, "Now Piece, Pt. 1" and "Now Piece, Pt. 2," which demonstrates Kjærgaard's ability to craft cohesive and engaging musical narratives.

Recorded in the National Radio studios, "Keys" benefits from a pristine production that allows Kjærgaard's virtuosic playing to shine. Whether you're a longtime fan of avant-garde jazz or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the innovative and boundary-pushing work of Søren Kjærgaard.

30 januari 2006

(P) 2008 ILK Music

About Søren Kjærgaard

Søren Kjærgaard is a versatile Danish pianist, composer, and improviser who has made a significant impact on the free jazz and avant-garde scenes. Born and raised in Lemvig, Denmark, Kjærgaard's musical journey began with early piano lessons, leading him to study at the Rytmisk Musikkonservatorium in Copenhagen. His breakthrough came in 2000 when he won the Nordic Young Jazz Competition with his trio Fuchsia. Since then, Kjærgaard has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including legendary drummer Andrew Cyrille, bassist Ben Street, and interdisciplinary artist Torben Ulrich. His discography features captivating works like "Open Opus" and "Concrescence," showcasing his innovative approach to music. Kjærgaard's performances are known for their emotional depth and technical prowess, making him one of Denmark's most sought-after pianists.