Description
The one word that best describes Mika Pohjola’s debut as a leader is “original.” The melodic strength of Pohjola’s material suggests sources in the traditional music of Finland, where he was born, and Sweden, where he first studied jazz with a Spanish instructor. “I’m not interested in writing variations on the folkloric material,” Mika insists, “but I like the idea of a general folk audience. So I write my own folk material.”
Pohjola’s strength is his ability to make something new of these influences and concepts. The empathy of the trio — plus guest guitarist Mick Goodrick on six tracks (including the three different sightings of “The Bear” that serve as strategically placed interludes) — reinforces the unity of the compositions.
Pohjola, as a pianist, is a master of tension and release, bassist Bruno Råberg (Full Circle, Orange Then Blue) complements and swings, drummer Robert Dani (Enrico Rava, Devil Doll) delivers both power and delicacy, and guitarist Goodrick is his unpredictably delightful self, whether burning, rambling or singing lyrically.
Original music, unique concepts, extraordinary playing — it all adds up to one of the most persuasive debut albums in recent memory.
PERFORMERS
Mika Pohjola, piano; Roberto Dani, drums; Bruno Råberg, bass; Mick Goodrick, guitar
PROGRAM
1. Tyrant Krinippos 6:25
2. Goddess Arsinoe 8:43
3. Before Dawn 5:50
4. The Day of the Bear 2:58
5. Dionysios 10:33
6. Mood 4:30 a. m. 2:58
7. The Night of the Bear 0:43
8. Magneten 5:24
9. The Myth of the Old Man 5:28
10. Next Morning of the Bear 0:41
11. Fall of 1978 8:45
12. Kindergarten 6:46
13. Kaféet 4:12
All compositions by Mika Pohjola.
Recorded on 12, 14 December 1994 at Thin Ice Productions in North Andover, Massachusetts.
Producer: Mika Pohjola
Executive Producer: Gunther Schuller
ALSO AVAILABLE
for downloads and streaming on Amazon as well as other digital sites.
For more info on Myths & Beliefs, please visit Blue Music Group
