Svend Asmussen is an eminent jazz violinist; but he is also a showman, a musical pioneer and a fascinating composer. As he celebrates his 100th birthday on February 28, 2017, Storyville Records has decided to present a fresh exploration of Svend Asmussen’s musical production throughout the years. The first disc features early 1937-1944 recordings, where Asmussen finally decided on music as his occupation for life and began gaining international recognition with his elegant swing and refined arrangements. The second disc features 1953 and 1958 recordings from Hamburg, where Asmussen’s profound musicality and jazz skillfulness shine. On disc 3, Asmussen collaborates with violinist colleague Stephane Grappelli, and their different phrasings compliment each other. We also find previously unreleased tracks from a 1985 Paris session with the Georges Arvanitas Trio, a complement to the critically acclaimed “Embraceable” concert album from the same occasion. On disc 4, Asmussen and American legend Stuff Smith play a concert together in Copenhagen, the two clearly enjoying each other’s company. CD5 features the renowned 1996 concert “Fit as a Fiddle”, where Asmussen masterfully combines the insistent energy of his youth with the experience and musical grandeur he has gained from a lifetime of playing. On the DVD, Asmussen plays a lively 1986 concert in Copenhagen’s famous Jazzhus Montmartre with prominent musicians such as bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen and pianist Kenny Drew. ”The music exudes a wealth of creativity and curiosity as well, and I dare say that one day it will be established that Svend Asmussen’s solos are not merely constructions built over a series of chords, but wonderfully linked garlands of melody - even at the most frantic tempos,” writes music critic and Svend Asmussen biographer Kjeld Frandsen. ”In short, Svend Asmussen is a phenomenon. Not just because he has lived for a hundred years, but primarily for the intense and variegated way he has filled these many years.” “Svend Asmussen is light, precise, and yet profound; a consummate entertainer, a creative thinker, and an artist. And that combination is rare!” - Finnish jazz violinist, Ari Poutianinen, Jazz Special

With beautiful ballads that capture the mood between nightfall and daybreak, Icelandic saxophonist Sigurdur Flosasan and Danish Hammond B3 player Kjeld Lauritsen release their new album, Daybreak, on the venerable Storyville Records label.

Besides his reputation as "the definitive swing pianist", Teddy Wilson is often remembered in terms of his collaborations. Having played on the records of names like Louis Armstrong, Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald and Benny Goodman, Wilson's fingerprints are found on many of records that helped popularize and define swing in it's glory years. In 1980, Wilson revisited the songs he had performed with Benny Goodman in the 1930s, delivering material that he had clearly mastered at this point and which gave a special look into the talents and sentiments of Teddy Wilson that played a primary role in the swing era. Teddy Wilson Trio Revisits the Goodman Years sees Teddy Wilson re-portray the Benny Goodman small-group repertoire that Wilson had played with Goodman many decades before this Copenhagen session in 1980. It is a return to material that had stood the test of time while Wilson had lived a long career since his time with Goodman himself. Of the many collaborators that Wilson enjoyed in his career, Goodman in particular developed a strong, long-lived musical relationship with Teddy Wilson, incorporating the aspects and strengths of Wilson's playing that are particularly apparent on this record. Relaxed and elegant, Wilsons mastery of the piano sounds as graceful as ever while maintaining a sense of intensity that comes through with renewed clarity in the present line-up. Wilson has not reinvented himself in returning to these songs, but his talent and infectious and exciting playing make it hard to argue that he should.

Summer Serenade, recorded in 1980, sees Benny Carter in the latter part of a pioneering and exceptionally long career return to Copenhagen for a session that documents his accumulated relationship with the alto saxophone and why he is remembered as one of the instrument's defining players. On a Sunday in August of 1980, Carter found a comfortable dynamic in a quartet finely tuned to his still obvious talents on the alto sax and who also managed to make their own mark on a series of Carter's own songs as well as those of a few others. Although he played trumpet, trombone, clarinet, tenor and piano at different points in his career, it is as an alto saxophonist that Benny Carter achieved his enviable reputation as an instrumentalist. The broad, sweeping phrases of his improvisations have the structural stability of compositions in their own right, and here, his approach to the instrument benefits from having been honed throughout the prior decades. Benny Carter had previously toured in Scandinavia in the 1930s when he had made a name for himself in the United States writing for and playing with the bands of Charlie Johnson, Horace and Fletcher, Don Redman and others. On this first encounter with European audiences, Carter was welcomed with open arms, and perhaps this initial meeting played into him going back to Copenhagen to record Summer Serenade almost 44 years later.

The Christina DAHL Quartet presents this new release, Quintesse. All of the works on this album were composed by Christina DAHL. Christina DAHL is one of the most respected Danish saxophone players. She is a band leader and composes music for small and large ensembles. She has performed in countless constellations and is known by her unique soul-tingled sound and her lyrical interpretations that go straight to the heart. Her playing varies from the most intimate and understated to the explosive. She writes: "My quartet consists of the guitarist Niclas Knudsen who with his enormous musical personality plays with abandon and a freely expressed lyricism, Jesper Lundgaard who is internationally renowned for his virtuoso bass playing and Espen Laub von Lilienskjold who is a superbly talented drummer who adds dynamicism and a dedicated energy to the music."

This new release features ten brand new compositions from Danish pianist Heine Hansen, performed by the Heine Hansen trio which includes bassist Thomas Fonnesbaek and drummer Alex Riel. The group's previous album, Signature, received glowing reviews by fans and critics, and this release is sure to be no different. "There is a particularly powerful grace in Heine Hansen's way of playing the piano.(...) The album here is Hansen's receipt for the much deserved Ben Webster award and it shows the pianist as we know him, as one who expresses himself equally convincing in all mainstream jazz forms, and as someone for whom every note has it's clear role to play in the music's figure." (Peter H. Larsen)

Mads Mathias’s highly anticipated second album of
original jazz songs arranged for small ensemble, big
band and strings, is due for release on 12th Nov 2021.
Since his breakthrough in 2012, leading Nordic jazz
vocalist/saxophonist Mads Mathias has received
numerous awards and toured clubs and festivals across
Europe and Asia, performing at concert halls such as the
Royal Albert Hall and Royal Festival Hall in London
and the Forbidden City Concert Hall in Be?ing. He has
also frequently fronted the Danish Radio Big Band.
On this, his sophomore album, Mads has gathered
together some of the best in the business, from
Grammy-nominated DR arranger Peter Jensen and the
UK's leading jazz arranger Guy Barker (London Jazz
Festival’s ‘Jazz Voice’) to the leader of the renowned
Danish String Quartet – Rune Tonsgård, Brazilian
Pandero master Bernardo Aguiar and one of the world’s
best harmonica players, Mathias Heise.
Alongside these new collaborators are long-time
associates ‘the Quentin Tarantino of Danish jazz’ and
playmate since childhood Peter Rosendal (keys), Morten
Ankarfeldt (bass) and Esben Laub & UK rising-star James Maddren on drums, plus an incredible horn section.
‘It’s been really exciting to work with these amazing musicians and be able to use different instrumentation to best
deliver each song’ Mads comments. In so doing, the album provides great variety, yet with a forward-looking,
original and consistent ‘sound’ throughout.
The title ‘I’m All Ears’ references Mads’s intuitive approach to music, having lived part of his life in Tanzania,
where his love for beats, rhythm and swing originated. ‘I get inspiration from many kinds of music and it’s most
important to me how music makes me feel or move - I hear sounds rather than genres’. The album title invites us to
open our ears to different ways of listening, and, beyond music, to open our ears to hear other people and cultures
and their stories in an increasingly polarized world.
And stories are important to Mads. Each song lyric a snapshot, a vignette, - from the tongue in cheek, humorous
lament of a bad dancer in ‘If I were a Dancer’ to the nostalgic wistfulness of ‘Marigold’ - a poetic insight into how
fast children grow up and the fear of a parent having to let them go. Mads describes a particularly personal lyric:
‘’Forbidden Word’ is about not saying no! I’ve always felt that by being open and saying yes to music, people and
new projects I have gained so much that I would otherwise have missed out on. But it's also about fear for me. I hate
fear and I try to fight it by saying yes’.
The result of this latest affirmative is a spellbinding collection of nine undeniably swinging originals. Music to your
ears.

Jesper Lundgaard, Bob Rockwell, Doug Raney, Henrik Gunde and Aage Tanggaard perform the music of Horace Parlan who moved to Copenhagen in 1973 and became an important figure in the Danish Jazz scene.

Standards consists of a series of standards that were not on the 2017 Kauflin/Fonnesbæk release Synesthesia, where most of the material consisted of original compositions. Justin and Thomas occasionally warmed up for the Synesthesia session by jamming on a few standards - not really considering their release, but more as a means of developing a common language regarding well-known melodies. And since they were in the studio, these functioned as an excellent diversion, after which they could relax with the other takes on the agenda. At the time they even considered deleting these 'diversions', which would have been a rather hasty decision! So now you can hear a mix of the 'left-overs'. There is no editing, which means the numbers were recorded as though it were a live concert, and then mixed. There are two tunes that were on the duo's first album - It's All Right with Me and Nigerian Marketplace - but they both felt that these takes were strong enough to make it in their own right. The young jazz superstar Justin Kauflin is a pianist, composer and producer. His international recognition proves its worth on this album: He is a precise and playful pianist, but always laid-back and elegant. His style mingles perfectly with the quieter Scandinavian Fonnesbæk and together, their understated approach makes a powerful statement in itself. It’s Kauflin’s simplicity and skill that impresses the listener, his eloquence on the piano never throwing the audience off, but always inviting them to sharpen their senses to the smallest of details. Thomas Fonnesbæk is a fascinating musician who exudes technical brilliance and a superior sense of rhythm, as well as a melodic and harmonic sensitivity reminiscent of Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen that never overshadows his own unique style.

Danish harmonica virtuoso Mathias Heise launches his highly anticipated acoustic jazz album, titled Mouth Games on Storyville Records. The project, described by Heise as his 'first acoustic jazz album', is a result of years of meticulous groundwork. Mouth Games features a captivating interplay between Heise and a carefully selected group of highly talented musicians, including accomplished pianist Jacob Christoffersen, master guitarist Pelle von B�low, acclaimed bassist Thomas Fonnesb�k and versatile drummer Jeppe Gram. With nine carefully chosen tracks, including seven original compositions and two standards, Mouth Games presents a captivating narrative that explores classical structural conventions of jazz with flair, innovation, taste and virtuosity. Heise's masterful harmonica playing effortlessly intertwines with the highly accomplished rhythm section. Their telepathic interplay results in memorable performances filled with muscular mature solos, deeply rooted in the language of modern jazz traditions. Heise states: "... I have always played a lot of jazz gigs, gathering tunes over a long time, finding musicians that I really connect with. I felt like now I have found the right musicians - heart to heart, we just speak to each other. In the studio there has to be a lot of interplay, spontaneous feeling and events that nobody can prepare in advance. To make this happen, I had to be on a certain level, prepared, focused. For the first time, I had the skills and maturity to make my first acoustic jazz album - not an easy task!" Mouth Games serves as compelling evidence of Heise's unwavering commitment to expanding the boundaries of jazz improvisation on the chromatic harmonica. This album represents a quantum leap in his musical evolution, displaying a deep immersion in the contemporary legacy of jazz rhythm, harmony and improvisation. Mathias Heise is internationally renowned for his groundbreaking approach to jazz improvisation on the chromatic harmonica, having won the 2013 Chromatic Harmonica World Championship, received the Danish Crown Prince Couple's prestigious Stardust Award in 2016 and being awarded the Ben Webster Prize in 2017. With four critically acclaimed albums under his belt, including three albums with his fusion band Quadrillion and one in collaboration with the Danish Radio Big Band, Heise continues to push the boundaries of musical creativity and innovation. Mouth Games gives rise to a new jazz harmonica solar system, comprising nine incomparably marvelous tracks whose significance goes beyond the sum of their parts. This profound modern jazz statement deserves the widest attention and recognition.

Danish / Swedish jazz-vocalist and songwriter, Kira Martini is releasing her new album Open Wide on Storyville Records on May 31, 2024. On this recording, Martini serves us a handful of her own compositions in a borderland between genres - a fusion of Nordic folk and jazz with notes of the warm seventies songwriter sound and mentality, inspired by the likes of Carole King, Joni Mitchell and Nick Drake. Open Wide is about facing life with an open mindset. Personally. Musically. It's a soul-stirring fusion of genres, where Martini transcends boundaries and captivates listeners with her personal melodies and heartfelt stories. Her songs comes from a place of need for outlet, and they are deeply personal experiences. She firmly believes that music is the strongest way to heal and connect. Martini and her band takes us on an odyssey, exploring what happens when songwriting meets the free mentality of jazz, while touching themes like healing, transformation, love, friendship, anger and release. Behind she has a team of some of the finest musicians Danish jazz has to offer, including guitarist Johannes Wamberg, saxophonist Jakob Dinesen, bassist Anders Fjeldsted and drummer Morten �ro. They all hold a special place in her heart for their way of bringing themselves into every note, and being present in shaping and coloring the music. Besides the band, she has invited some special guests and dear friends to join as features on different tracks. Kira Martini has established herself as a prominent figure in the Scandinavian music scene over the past decade, known for her true warm voice, frank ways and versatility. In recognition of her talent, she was awarded the prestigious Pal� Jazz Award in 2023.

Classical Music

In the course of the past few years, Kira Martini, has become a strong and well-known character on the Danish jazz scene. With her positive energy and frank ways; her warm, true voice; and a broad repertoire of different styles, she is unlike any other singer on the scene. Kira Martini is both a jazz singer and a songwriter. The present album, her fifth, is a mix of great songs from the history of Jazz, but also draws on Folk and Bossa nova inspirations for it's diverse expressions. Opening track Warm Valley, a Duke Ellington composition, is a lush rendition of the classic that creates just the warmth and tenderness this track deserves. Followed by the Bob Dylan track Don't Think Twice, It's All Right the album sets it's mellow pace from the start. Constantemente sees Martini singing in Portugese as she renders the beautiful Brazilian song in a version that creates a cozy and warm imagery. Cole Porter's classic I Love Paris is interpreted in a cool, smooth version that incorporates both traditional jazz as well as more gypsy-oriented and klezmer-like vibes. A very danceable and uplifting version. "I am so grateful for this collection of fine people. Each skilled musicians with heart and soul, that manage to bring their personalities into their playing. The combination of our very different backgrounds, ages, experience, musical references, and persons, brings a certain chemistry. Each time I get on stage with these guys, I feel I'm a part of something real special. I feel a flow of happiness, love and gratitude. I feel challenged, connected, playful, free, and above all, heard and understood."

Storyville Records proudly announces the release of the album, New Views, by jazz bassist, composer and world-leading music brain scientist Peter Vuust in collaboration with the dynamic ensemble of Aarhus Jazz Orchestra, on June 14, 2024. The genesis of New Views traces back to 2021, when Aarhus Jazz Orchestra approached Peter Vuust with the idea of touring while he spoke on the intricate workings of the brain during jazz listening and performance. Originally intending to intersperse classic big band arrangements with scientific talks, Vuust and director/arranger Nikolai Bogelund soon recognized the potential for a more engaging experience by showcasing Vuust's original compositions. Working alongside arranger and trumpet player Jesper Riis, Bogelund crafted a signature set comprising Vuust's compositions alongside three new songs tailored for this occasion. The result was a two-hour show that not only entertained but also educated audiences on the intricacies of music cognition. New Views features ten of Vuust's compositions, from the energizing afrobeat groove of Marrakech to the tender ballad Young Blue Eyes dedicated to Vuust's son, the album traverses a spectrum of moods and rhythm. Tracks like High Five and Giving Birth highlight the virtuosity of the ensemble, while the album concludes with the contemplative The End of a Perfect Day, featuring a bass solo by Vuust himself. Vuust is an award-winning composer and bass player and has released seven albums as a solo artist, but this is his first record with a large-scale orchestra. Reflecting on the collaboration, Vuust expressed: "... to hear your own compositions arranged so beautifully and played by such an extraordinary set of musicians, each of them solo artists in their own right, is one of the most touching experiences of my career-an ambition I did not know, I had". With it's blend of pleasure and learning, New Views, offers a captivating exploration of musical textures and emotions. Whether you're a big band enthusiast or a music lover seeking new perspectives, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression!

Renowned Danish composer and pianist, Frans Bak, unveils his latest project, the ballads album Softer Than You Know, on Storyville Records on May 3, 2024, marking a nostalgic return to his musical origins. Softer Than You Know is a collection of 10 songs featuring lyrics by Helle Hansen, performed by the internationally acclaimed vocalist Sinne Eeg. Bak describes the album as a fusion between jazz and pop, offering laid-back melodies and ample room for musical exploration. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bak found himself longing for the sound of his own band. A chance online encounter with saxophonist Fredrik Lundin reignited his passion for music, leading to a collaboration with lyricist Helle Hansen. In turn, Sinne Eeg's captivating voice breathed life into the songs, inspiring Bak to create a full album. Recorded with a stellar line up, including Thomas Vang on bass, Emil de Waal on drums paired with contributions from American guitarist Peter Sprague, saxophonists Hans Ulrik and Fredrik Lundin, Softer Than You Know promises to enchant listeners with it's soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. During the 80's and 90's, Bak's career flourished as he balanced his roles as a pianist, bandleader and composer. He collaborated with Danish artists such as Trine Dyrholm, Hella Joof and Peter Frodin, while also gaining recognition for his film score compositions. Notably, Bak composed the music for the TV series Forbrydelsen and the US remake The Killing, sparking a 25 year international career into the world of cinematic soundtracks. Vocalist Sinne Eeg has garnered international acclaim for her mesmerizing performances, captivating audiences with her rich and emotive voice. With numerous awards and accolades to her name, including four Danish Music Awards for Best Vocal Jazz Album, Eeg's is considered one of the premier female vocalists in Scandinavia. Bak extends his gratitude to all involved in the project, emphasizing Fredrik Lundin's pivotal role in reigniting his creative spark and Eeg's transformative vocal performance.