"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.
Vinylscout