Volum - Knut Kristiansen
Three generations of jazz musicians come together with the piano legend Knut Kristiansen leading the charge. KK – two letters that evoke an image of authoritative presence and brilliant piano playing. That Bergen hosts one of the foremost interpreters of Monk in Europe is a significant, though not exhaustive, part of Knut Kristiansen's story – along the way, he has laid the foundation for a vibrant jazz scene and music education in the city, started big bands, and has been (and continues to be) an important promoter of African and Latin American music. He won the Buddy Award in 1983 and the Vossajazz Award in 1990. In his new quartet, he includes youth with a mix of his own original music and compositions by, among others, Dollar Brand, Ornette Coleman, and Thelonious Monk. Magne Thormodsæter is a well-known name for most on the Norwegian jazz scene, and besides being a highly inspiring professor at the Grieg Academy in Bergen, he is a sought-after double bassist whether it concerns classical tradition, contemporary music, or hard-swinging jazz. Sigurd Steinkopf has long been an important part of Bergen's jazz community and has more than earned his nickname: The Keeper, with his tremendous musicality and drive. Steinkopf and Røed studied together at the Grieg Academy and are known from, among others, General Post Office. Røed, like Thormodsæter, has had KK as a mentor for many years and is the youngest ever recipient of the Vossajazz Award.
KNUT KRISTIANSEN – PIANO
AKSEL RØED – TENOR SAX
MAGNE THORMODSÆTER – DOUBLE BASS
SIGURD STEINKOPF – PERCUSSION