Oops
I think Haremscarem is a little off the geographic mark here as John Surman is in fact English and a genius, as is most of his music. However, everything else (s)he says is right on the button.
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A fabulous fusion
I came to Scandinavian jazz through ECM, and Jan Garbarek in particular. It is a branch by itself, melding the soul and rhythm of jazz with the sophistication of European classical tradition and Scandinavian mystic folk music. Gustavsen's piano work with ECM exemplifies this beautiful school of music, and whether or not you classify his collaboration with Gjaere as jazz, there can be no argument about the beauty of this music. His work with Silje Nergaard and Ulrich Drechsler is equally beautiful. The work of Arild Andersen, Bobo Stenson, John Surman and Esbjorn Svensson, amongst others, opens your eyes to the talent that comes from this unlikely corner of the jazz world. Garbarek is just one of many great artists produced there. To continue the exploration, try Solveig Slettahjell and Helen Eriksen, two unique and contrasting song stylists. It is almost comparable with being on 52nd Street during the 40s and 50s, with the wealth of talent to enjoy.
