This time around it’s obvious. Not
only does he compose exciting music, Toldam is also one burly piano player. Once
again this talent, who has already received many praises (including his work
with Stork) shows that it has new sides to it. This album is recorded during three
nights in September at Kind of Blue. An extremely cozy and intimate place in
Copenhagen.
At Christmas 2010 Toldam began his
co-operation with Sekten-drummer Knut Finsrud and bass player Nils Davidsen. It
started out as a jam-session but the musicians soon ended up playing a bunch of
melodies which Toldam had just written.
The trio had its live debut in
spring of 2011 and was recorded at autumn that same year. Toldam rolled in own
upright piano 500 meters from his apartment into the venue Kind of Blue. “Maybe
this is an ending chapter in the music of Simon Toldam and the beginning of
something new. Maybe…” Ib Skovgaard writes in his cover notes.
The classical piano trio set-up is
new to Toldam in the sense that nothing has been recorded with him in this
format, but at the same time there is something unmistakably Toldam in the
center of the many jazz clichés. In association with his two musicians Toldam
creates a loose and unstructured universe and the trio easily mixes it up with
swing of the most excitable kind.
It is a great advantage that the
recording of the album was set in such intimate surroundings and the steamy,
sweaty mood finds no difficulties in filling out my ordinary living room. It is
a strong album Toldam has created. Very recommendable.
Sunshine Sunshine or Green as Grass
is also released on vinyl. It can be bought at Simon Toldam’s private home. All
you need to do is write him an e-mail. He will offer you a cup of tea, when you
come to collect the record. (simontoldam.com)
Review Niels Overgaard. Translation DSI Swinging Europe.
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