Stabat Mater

Album Description

"Stabat Mater," the debut album from Mathilde Grooss Viddal, is a captivating exploration of meditation and prayer through the lens of contemporary jazz. Released in 2019 under the Giraffa label, this 46-minute journey is a testament to Viddal's unique compositional voice and her ability to blend spiritual themes with intricate musical arrangements.

The album features eight tracks, each a distinct piece of the "Stabat Mater" suite, along with a concluding piece titled "Peace." Viddal's compositions are complemented by contributions from notable artists such as Harpreet Bansal, Per Willy Aaserud, Borge-Are Halvorsen, and Øyvind Brække, all of whom are part of the free-spirited jazz ensemble FriEnsemblet, led by Viddal herself. The ensemble's expansive viewpoint and boundless creativity are evident throughout the album, making it a standout release in the contemporary jazz scene.

"Stabat Mater" is not just a collection of songs, but a cohesive musical experience that draws from various influences. The suite includes arrangements by Viddal, as well as contributions from other composers like Sibelius, Monk, and Haden. The album's artwork, featuring "Stabat Mater" by Karin Køltzow and designed by Chris Mentzen, adds a visual dimension to the spiritual and musical exploration.

Recorded live by Paulucci Araújo at the Nordic Black Theatre and Kampenjazz, and mixed by Jan Erik Kongshaug at Rainbow Studio in Oslo, "Stabat Mater" benefits from a rich, immersive sound quality. Whether you're a fan of contemporary jazz, spiritual music, or simply appreciate well-crafted compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

22 mrt 2019

(P) 2019 Giraffa

About Mathilde Grooss Viddal

Mathilde Grooss Viddal is a dynamic and innovative force in the Norwegian music scene, renowned for her multi-faceted talents as a musician, composer, and bandleader. As the leader of Friensemblet and a member of notable bands like Lucky Loop and Eick/Viddal Duo, she has carved out a unique niche for herself, blending modern big band sounds with traditional Norwegian folk music. Her work often experiments with free forms and grooves, creating a rich and diverse musical vocabulary that captivates audiences. Grooss Viddal is a virtuoso on the saxophone and clarinet, showcasing her versatility and depth in albums like "Notre Dame – Meditations and Prayers" and "Out of Silence." Her collaborations, such as with Nassam Jalal, further highlight her ability to connect and create across musical genres and cultures. Whether performing solo or leading an ensemble, Mathilde Grooss Viddal's music is a testament to her artistic vision and technical prowess.