Here & Now

Saxophonist Sigurdur Flosason writes: "'Music is the universal language of mankind' is a frequently cited quote by the 19th century American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Well, if that's the case, jazz is certainly my favorite dialect. The spontaneity and collaborative nature of jazz makes it ideal for swiftly building bridges between groups of musicians and audiences alike. Nothing is as musically exciting and refreshing as a newly forged relationship of outstanding jazz performers and composers, especially when brought together in the close comfort and proximity of one's living room. This was to be the beginning of what has now developed into a well-brewed and mature unity of musicians that have since then performed at jazz festivals in both Luxembourg and Reykjavik and have now recently recorded this outstanding album, featuring compositions from all four members." The compositions on this album provide a good framework for the musical dialogue. Ranging from melodic ballads such as Flosason's 'Father of Light' and Reis' 'Thank you letter,' the folkish melody and melancholy of Demuth's 'Dante' and Reis' 'Tundra,' to Flosason's more calculated and intellectually infused 'Counting sheep' and 'Forty-nine,' over to Herr's mystic and haunting 'Moonglow.'