Tord Gustavsen - piano, electronics
Steinar Raknes - double bass
Jarle Vespestad - drums
Tord Gustavsen is one of Norway's most renowned jazz pianists, excelling in introspective and often meditative jazz. He has released under his own name (Tord Gustavsen Ensemble and Tord Gustavsen Trio) nine albums on ECM Records over two decades. Audiences have each time been captivated by his stirring melodies, subtle grooves and a musicality that embraces both simplicity and depth.
The relatively recent co-optation with bassist Steinar Raknes and the creative support of long-time collaborator Jarle Vespestad on drums have given Tord Gustavsen's trio a new dynamic. Their latest album, The Opening (2022), is an exploration of several musical areas. Scandinavian folk songs, choral, gospel and jazz music are the sources of inspiration that feed the inventiveness of the three musicians.
Tord Gustavsen has received numerous awards including the Norwegian Grammy (Spellemannsprisen), CHOC Critics Award (France), Bell Award for Best International Jazz Album (Australia), Stereophile Record of the Month (USA), Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik (Germany), and NOPAs Musikkpris for Best Norwegian Jazz Composition. He has composed works for Vossajazz, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Oslo Jazz Festival, Oslo International Church Music Festival and Nidaros Cathedral Choir.
