Following North (2020), his well-received first album with his Nordic ensemble, Swedish flutist and saxophonist Anders Hagberg returns with a strong sequel, With Hope.
There’s a bit of an ECM vibe to the album, what with its atmospheric textures and meditative character, but setting Hagberg’s music apart is the warmth his alto, bass, contrabass, and concert flutes gives the performances. Whenever they’re present, there’s little of the reverb-heavy aura that sometimes chills an ECM production. That his compositions exude a folk-jazz character that’s generally lyrical and evocative also makes With Hope an appealing proposition.
It helps too that Hagberg’s surrounded by players wholly sympathetic to his music and its tone.

You need to be logged in to view the rest of the content. Please . Not a Member? Join Us

« »