Espen Berg Trio ^{+ Kika Sprangers' Beiggja}

Espen Berg Trio Norwegian pianist Espen Berg sees his trio as a sandbox in which he can experiment with rhythmic structures and compositional techniques. The group has become a very close-knit instrument that preserves both the traditions of the piano trio and has a clear identity and drive of its own. They return to LantarenVenster with their magnificent Norwegian jazz. Line-up: Espen Berg - piano, compositions Bárður Reinert Poulsen - bass Simon Albertsen - drums Kika Sprangers' Beiggja Beiggja is an intriguing new jazz band formed by three Norwegians and a Dutchman. Dutch saxophonist Kika Sprangers and Norwegian pianist Kjetil Mulelid are supported in this band by two heavyweights from the ECM stable: bassist Mats Eilertsen and drummer Per Oddvar Johansen. Their debut album Morning started as a long session recorded in the Norwegian winter at Oddvar's house. “Everyone brought some compositions, we pressed record and then played for two days,” the drummer says. The resulting album will be released in June 2025 on the Norwegian label Hubro. The album breathes the serenity of the Norwegian forests where it was recorded. The music moves between subdued melodies and adventurous improvisations, with the four musicians finding a balance between structure and freedom. Line-up: Kika Sprangers - sax Kjetil Mulelid - piano Mats Eilertsen - double bass Per Oddvar Johansen - drums