Lars Westin: Jazz in Sweden - an overview
"Free" and "Happy" (2 of 3)

Lars Jansson (photo: Jens Klüver) (b. 1951) began on the organ and electric keyboards but later concentrated on acoustic piano. His trio mostly plays Jansson’s own compositions. The subtle, intimate interplay between the musicians and the consistently high standard of the trio make it one of the most interesting jazz groups in Sweden.  Lars Jansson Trio: More human (1991) from 'A Window Toward  Being'  [Imogena IGCD019]  Lars Danielsson (b. 1958), who also has a background in fusion and pop, is another of Sweden’s internationally renowned bass-players. He is involved in several international groups and also fronts his own multi-national combinations. Entra and several of the other groups mentioned above have had strong connections with the musical scene in Gothenburg, a city that is also the home of many excellent jazz musicians. The saxophone group Position Alpha (photo: Lasse Fagerberg) (formed in the early 1980s) has remained one of the most original and creative ensembles, experimenting with different settings and means of expression, including theatrical effects. One of its leading members, alto saxophonist Thomas Jäderlund (b. 1958), also plays an important role in Änglaspel, a band which was formed in 1977. Änglaspel is led by pianist/composer Stefan Forssén (b. 1943) and covers a wide musical spectrum, from march-like tunes through bebop-style material to sentimental songs.  Position Alpha: Jelly Roll (1984) from The Great Sound of Sound [Dragon DRCD 307] There is a strong tradition of guitarists in Swedish jazz. The dean of this cadre is Rune Gustafsson (picture) (b. 1933), a master instrumentalist and versatile, melodic soloist who worked in Arne Domnérus’ group for many years. Gustafsson has also made a number of albums under his own name which have been circulated abroad.  Rune Gustafsson - Emigrantvisa from Rune Gustafsson (ECD 048) Two other excellent guitarists are Göran Klinghagen (b. 1955), with his sensitive sound and melodic phrasing, and Max Schultz (b. 1960), whose range varies from sparse lyricism on the acoustic guitar to the energetic electricity associated with rock. The internationally most active Swedish jazz guitarist is Ulf Wakenius (photo: Rolf Ohlson) (b. 1958), who has worked and recorded with many megastars, including pianist Oscar Peterson. He also leads his own Swedish group, playing a type of music that fits neatly into the fusion category.  Ulf Wakenius: First step (1992) from First step [Imogena CD 034]

"Free" and "Happy" (2 of 3)
Lars Westin: Jazz in Sweden - an overview