Green Cities

Album Description

"Green Cities" is a captivating jazz album by Danish saxophonist Thomas Agergaard, released in 2021 under the Gateway Music label. This collection of nine original compositions, with the exception of a classic cover, showcases Agergaard's unique blend of traditional jazz and free jazz, infused with a distinctive Nordic touch. The album features the tight-knit Thomas Agergaard Quartet, with Lars Jansson on piano, Lennart Ginman on double bass, and Anders Kjellberg on drums, each track highlighting the ensemble's exceptional musicianship and chemistry.

The album opens with the upbeat "Jive," setting a lively tone that contrasts with the introspective "Stella by Starlight." Throughout the record, Agergaard's tenor saxophone weaves intricate melodies, while his bandmates provide a solid and dynamic rhythmic foundation. The title track, "Green Cities," stands out with its evocative atmosphere, while "The Great Belonging" offers a poignant and reflective conclusion to the album.

With a total runtime of 51 minutes, "Green Cities" is a testament to Thomas Agergaard's compositional skills and his ability to lead a band through a diverse range of musical landscapes. The album is an excellent addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a fresh and engaging perspective on the genre.

9 juli 2021

2021 Time Span Records / Gateway Music

About Thomas Agergaard

Thomas Agergaard is a versatile and experimental Danish composer, saxophonist, and flutist renowned for his distinctive Nordic sound and deep roots in the American jazz tradition. Born in 1962, Agergaard has honed his craft over decades, collaborating with legendary musicians such as John Tchicai, Miroslav Vitous, and Marilyn Mazur. His music seamlessly blends jazz with avant-garde and classical elements, reflecting influences from Wayne Shorter and John Coltrane to John Cage.

Agergaard's career is marked by innovation and versatility. He has served as a composer-in-residence and has been recognised with numerous awards, including the Danish Jazz Federation's Honour Prize and multiple grants from the Danish Arts Foundation. Whether performing with his quartet, collaborating with other renowned artists, or composing for unique ensembles like the trio that incorporates paper into their performances, Thomas Agergaard continues to push the boundaries of jazz, creating music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.