Vårslapp

Album Description

Arild Andersen, Frode Alnæs, and Stian Carstensen proudly present their latest collaborative effort, 'Vårslapp', a captivating album that embodies the essence of spring. Released on 14 April 2023 via Kirkelig Kulturverksted, this 14-track masterpiece is a testament to the trio's exceptional musicianship and their ability to craft a unique sound that blends elements of free jazz and folk.

Featuring a diverse range of tracks, including 'Kom mai, du skjønne, milde', 'April Love', and 'Vårsøg', 'Vårslapp' is an album that will transport you to a world of vibrant colours and soothing melodies. With Andersen's double bass, Alnæs' electric and acoustic guitar, and Carstensen's accordion and pedal steel guitar, the trio weaves a rich tapestry of sound that is both poignant and uplifting.

The album's 42-minute duration is a carefully curated journey through the sights and sounds of the season, with each track complementing the last to create a cohesive and engaging listening experience. From the lively 'En glad calypso om våren' to the melancholic 'You Must Believe In Spring', 'Vårslapp' is an album that will resonate with fans of jazz and folk music alike.

With 'Vårslapp', Arild Andersen, Frode Alnæs, and Stian Carstensen bring to a close a project that began 25 years ago, completing a cycle of albums that celebrate the changing of the seasons. This latest instalment is a fitting culmination of their efforts, and a testament to the trio's enduring creativity and passion for music.

April 14, 2023

(P) 2023 Kirkelig Kulturverksted

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.