WAKO (Martin Olsen (sax), Kjetil Mulelid (pf), Bárður Poulsen (b), Simon Albertsen (ds))

WAKO

www.wakomusic.com

Coming from the vanguard of the New Wave of Nordic Jazz, Wako are one of the most dynamic and innovative groups on the scene. Touring extensively since 2015, they have honed their stagecraft and performances, garnering a solid fanbase and critical acclaim along the way. Described as having "buoyancy and originality" by Terje Mosnes (Jazz i Norge, NO), as possessing "a very personal and distinctive sound" (Mike Collin, London Jazz News, UK), and as creating music that "would melt even the blackest heart" (Bird is the Worm, USA), Wako have brought their ever-evolving musicianship and creativity to impressive live renditions of their work across Europe, including collaborative performances with Oslo Strings and with Norwegian trumpeter ne plus ultra, Arve Henriksen. The scope of their musical reach is always finely attuned in equal measures to audience, environment and source material, meaning not only is each concert superlative, but also a unique experience. In short, Wako are one of the most impressive young live acts today, signalling a healthy future for jazz in Norway and beyond.

Individually, the members are part of different bands and projects, such as the Norwegian grammy award winner Hegge, Megalodon Collective (Norwegian grammy nominee 2016), Espen Berg trio (NTNU ambassadors 2016), Kjemilie and Chick Corea & the Trondheim Jazz Orchestra

Press about our latest album «Modes for all Eternity»

- "It is an engaging work of expressive reach and austere beauty." -Fritz Balwit, Audiophile audition

- "A cooperation with buoyancy and originality" - Terje Mosnes / JazzNytt (NO)

- "The musicians delivers in a way that makes this album a true joy to listen to" - Salt Peanuts (NO)

- "This music draws deeply on lots of ideas and traditions but brings them together in a very personal and distinctive sound"- Mike Collins / London Jazz News (UK)

- "Beautiful, contrasted and controlled themes are combined with driving and dynamic progression, and the individual involvement is unmistakable." - Olav Opsvik, Jazznytt (NO)

- "An in intriguing album" Jazzhalo (BE)