Lien, Helge
Ozella, 2009, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 15.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Fusion
Performance: 3
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Pianist Helge Lien leads an all acoustic trio with bassist Frode Berg and drummer Knut Aalefj¾r. It is our first exposure to the Norwegian band though this is their sixth album. Their sound is along the lines of e.s.t., Brad Mehldau, Bill Evans… They perform nine original compositions that evoke a sense of calm and peacefulness around an energetic core. That doesn’t exclude upbeat tunes however. We liked the energetic Latin beats on “Troozee” and the bubbly spirit of “Snurt” as well as the ballads. Lien has established his signature and we’re sure to hear more from them in the future.
Publicist: Allegro
