In Winds, In Light by Anders Jormin

15 Apr

Written by Glenn Astarita
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ECM Records continues to highlight the often-cerebral works of Scandinavian jazz-based modernists. With that, Swedish bassist Anders Jormin signifies perhaps one of the more notable recording artists - who over the years - have conveyed a penchant for toggling between multiple jazz-centric iterations. This album features Jormin’s sacred music works - commissioned to be performed at a Swedish cathedral.

On this release, American modern jazz pianist Marilyn Crispell adds trinkets of sound via delicately balanced voicings. Essentially, these sixteen pieces surface as musical vignettes. Vocalist Lena Willemark sings (in the Swedish vernacular) poetic text on many of these rather dreamy tomes, constructed upon Jormin’s nimble lines and undeniably, cultured tone. The quintet does skirt the avant-garde via Ms Willemark’s plaintive cries and Jormin’s sometimes, haunting lines, especially during his arco-bass passages via ethereal movements.

Church organist Karin Nelson provides a touch of sacredness to the composition titled "En gang," where Ms Willemark offsets the sanctified implications with howling shrieks. Here, the band conjures up imagery of salvation or maybe someone bearing his or her soul to a higher being. In some instances, this production might compel the willing listener to ponder an alternative insight into what is the norm: Both musically and spiritually. (Recommended.... )

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Anders Jormin
CD Title: In Winds, In Light
Genre: Free Jazz / Avante Garde
Year Released: 2004
Record Label: ECM Records
Musicians: Lena Willemark (voice), Marilyn Crispell (piano), Karin Nelson (church organ), Anders Jormin (double bass), Raymond Strid (percussion)
Label Website: http://www.ecmrecords.com
Rating: Three Stars