Ultraaani Finland Schallplatten & CDs

Review: The Ville Lahteenmaki Trio, formed in Trondheim in 2022, is a fresh jazz ensemble featuring young Finnish and Norwegian talents. Led by the innovative bass clarinetist Ville Lahteenmaki, this trio channels the spirit of American jazz legends from the 60s and 70s, blending energetic play, bold melodies, and intense improvisations that evoke the Dolphy-Murray-Mahall tradition. This reissued album showcases the trio's dynamic range and deep understanding of the genre. The opening track, 'Prelude,' sees Lahteenmaki's robust bass clarinet weaving through the frictional interplay between bassist Nicolas Leirtro and drummer Trym Saugstad Karlsen. This passage transitions into a swinging, bluesy feel, punctuated by a well-crafted bass solo. 'Shakti' features Lahteenmaki's rhythmic ingenuity and timbral exploration, creating a dense, fervent atmosphere that recalls the influence of John Coltrane and McCoy Tyner. The pace slows with 'Calling Alice,' a tribute to Alice Coltrane, where a repeated bass figure and rattling percussion create an aura of mysticism. The trio ventures into more complex territory with 'Mare Incognitum,' an uptempo piece in six, where Lahteenmaki's rapid-fire bass clarinet acrobatics take center stage, backed by Karlsen's imaginative drumming. The album closes with 'Best Wishes,' a contemplative piece that evokes Pharoah Sanders' spiritual explorations, ending the album on a quiet, introspective note. Lahteenmaki's trio boldly navigates the delicate balance between tradition and innovation, crafting a sound that is both daring and deeply engaging.