All About Jazz – Geno Thackara, 2. January 2019
Whether it’s meant deliberately or not, the cover image for Hymns in a Jazz Mood, vol. 2 is a pretty apt illustration: the simple church building is central, but doesn’t need to be at the front and center of attention. The pastoral feel of the forestscape covers everything more prominently, though half the tree shapes somehow look as shimmery as reflections in water. The sight seems common and even mundane, but with something not entirely earthly about it.
In the same way, Ulf Krupka and friends present some largely simple music with a purity approaching the spiritual. The traditional hymns are chosen for their timeless staying power, a couple going as far back as the fifteenth century. Everything serves a mood of subtle heartfelt joy, from the understated piano-sax-bass lineup (the odd smattering of organ fitting nicely in place) to the vibe that comes from actually recording in a church.
Track Listing: Lei, Milde Ljos (Lead Me Gentle Light); Guds Menighet, Syng for Vår Skaper (God’s Church, Sing for Our Creator); Den Dag du Gav Oss, Er Til Ende (The Day You Gave Us); Milde Jesus, Dine Hender (Mild Jesus); Sannhets Tolk og Taler (Interpreter of Truth); No Vil eg Aldri Jesus Gløyma (I Will Never Forget Jesus); Med Jesus Vil eg Fara (I Will Go with Jesus); No Kviler Skog og Lundar (The Forest Rests); I All Sin Glans Nu Stråler Solen (In All Its Glory).
Personnel: Ulf Krupka: piano, organ; Line Falkenberg: saxophones; Tine Asmundsen: acoustic bass.
Title: Hymns in a Jazz Mood Vol. 2 | Year Released: 2018 | Record Label: Losen Records