Glory

"Glory," released on January 1, 1979, is a captivating jazz album by the renowned Swedish pianist and composer, Bengt Hallberg. This concise yet powerful collection, spanning just 32 minutes, is a testament to Hallberg's mastery of the genre, blending elements of cool jazz and hard bop with a touch of Swedish ballads. The album, released under the Naxos Sweden - Linx label, features a mix of original compositions and spiritual jazz standards, each track showcasing Hallberg's unique style and deep musicality.

The album opens with "Glory," a tribute to Saint Cecilia, the patroness of musicians, setting a spiritual tone for the rest of the record. Other highlights include "Heaven," a soulful exploration of faith and hope, and "Afrikansk bön," a beautiful African-inspired prayer. The album also features a rendition of the traditional spiritual "Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit," demonstrating Hallberg's ability to infuse classic songs with his own distinctive voice.

Throughout the album, Hallberg's piano playing is both delicate and powerful, his melodies soaring and his rhythms infectious. The album is a great introduction to Hallberg's work for those new to his music, and a welcome addition to the collections of longtime fans. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful music, "Glory" is an album that deserves a place in your collection.