The Well – Tord Gustavsen Quartet
The Well is the much anticipated new offering from the Tord Gustavsen Quartet.
Norwegian pianist Gustavsen made a huge impact earlier this century with a series of albums which set the jazz world on fire: Changing Places, The Ground, Being There & Restored, Returned.
The first three kept to a piano trio format; the latter to an expanded quintet with a female vocalist & Tore Brunborg on saxophone.
The Well is different once again, omitting vocals but keeping the expressive brass work of Brunborg intact.
The line-up has extensive touring behind them , & the four musicians of the Gustavsen Quartet really blossom as a band in a new progam of tunes by Tord.
Sax player Tore Brunborg is given an important voice here, his melodic lines combine bluesy sonority with a Nordic cry.
Gustavsen’s gospel-tinged, unhurried beautiful piano playing displays a characteristic warmth & tenderness.
Gustavsen, having toured Australia several times, enjoys a large & dedicated following within the jazz community & beyond.
Make no mistake, Gustavsen’s appeal is far broader than merely the world of jazz.
Review by Cathryn King at TITLE Music Film Books
