Another Step

Album Description

"Another Step" is the latest offering from Norwegian saxophonist Frode Gjerstad, set to release on November 1, 2024, via the independent label circ.tot. This concise yet powerful album clocks in at just 30 minutes, but it's a testament to Gjerstad's mastery of free jazz and avant-garde music that every second counts.

The album features two tracks, "Another" and "Step," both performed by Gjerstad alongside drummer Ivar Myrset Asheim and cellist Margaux Oswald. This trio format is a departure from Gjerstad's previous work with the quartet he co-founded, and it allows for a more intimate and immediate sound.

Gjerstad is known for his intense, energetic performances, and "Another Step" is no exception. The album is a raw, unfiltered expression of the band's collective improvisational skills, with each member pushing the boundaries of their respective instruments. Gjerstad's saxophone work is as fiery and unpredictable as ever, while Asheim's drumming provides a steady, driving pulse, and Oswald's cello adds a touch of elegance and depth.

"Another Step" is a bold statement from one of the most innovative and influential figures in contemporary jazz. It's a challenging listen, but one that rewards repeated exploration. Fans of free jazz and avant-garde music will not want to miss this one.

1 november 2024

2024 circ.tot

About Frode Gjerstad

Frode Gjerstad is a pioneering figure in the world of free jazz and avant-garde music, hailing from the coastal city of Stavanger, Norway. Born in 1948, Gjerstad has spent over five decades honing his craft as a multi-reedist and composer, with the alto saxophone as his principal instrument. His discography is a testament to his collaborative spirit, featuring works with legendary musicians such as Paal Nilssen-Love, Peter Brötzmann, Evan Parker, and Derek Bailey, among many others. Gjerstad's music is characterized by its fierce improvisational energy and expressive depth, often exploring themes of freedom, equality, and social commentary. He has led numerous ensembles, including the Frode Gjerstad Trio and the Frode Gjerstad Quartet, and has been a steadfast advocate for improvisational music in Norway since the early 1970s. His extensive touring and festival appearances across Europe and North America have solidified his status as a leading voice in the global free jazz community.