Various Artists
Enter The Decagon

Christian Reim (b. 1945) has played jazz since the late 50’s, his merits list is long but how many can price themselves with having played both bass and piano with Dexter Gordon?That was back in the day but with this new release, different generations meet over Christian’s colorful, deeply personal lyricism.The first four songs were recorded in the autumn of 2001 in two sets, one with Harald Johnsen (b.1970 – d.2011) on bass and Jarle Vespestad (b. 1966) on drums. Two years later, in the summer of 2003, it is Ingebrigt Håker Flaten (b. 1971) on bass and Håkon Mjåset Johansen (b. 1975) on drums. The recordings were made in Christian’s home studio at Frogner in Oslo with Martin Abrahamsen as the sound engineer.The repertoire of 9 songs consists mostly of Reim’s own songs, but also the famous jazz version of Norways national anthem ‘Ja, Vi Elsker’ The traditional christmas song ‘O Jul med din Glede’ and an interpretation of Ennio Morricone’s ‘Once Upon A Time In America’

EABS in search of Slavic melancholyAfter the very well received, both by the audience and critics, debut album Repetitions (Letters to Krzysztof Komeda), focusing on the lesser-known works of the legendary Polish composer, the Wrocław-based EABS decided to further expand this lead and released two more vinyl records, "live" and "on tape", which crowned the "Komeda triptych". The astounding reception of the band's debut whet listeners' appetite for completely new recordings. It took 2 years for the new album to materialise, this time, however, it is filled with 100% original material.

New material from the enegmatic Mr Langestraat. TIP!"One afternoon a couple of years ago, an excited Ronald Langestraat could barely contain himself. “I’ve started dancing!” he exclaimed. “I never did it before - I’d always admired it in the past, but just wasn’t able to move like that!” But then, at the ripe old age of 81, Ronald was gripped by the urge to respond to the rhythm and express himself in this physical way.For a man who’s dedicated his life to music, in particular Jazz with a funky Latin inflection, it feels like an especially sage realization - like the treasure at the end of a long quest, or the princess after the end-game boss. The prize is freedom, and the shapes we make on the dance floor are mirrored in that piano solo over the stanzas - a caravan that trips from smokey basement clubs all the way to Shiva’s Tandava on the edge of the universe.The music on this album is inspired by this revelation. Although these songs were written many moons ago, their interpretation is modern, full of renewed energy, with young, yet well-worn players. While it slots neatly into the daily music practice that Ronald adheres to, it’s a new chapter in a story that is still being written - and an invitation to get in touch with your dancing self and try out some new moves."