Alder Ego - II (2018)

Helsinki-based drummer Joonas Leppänen introduces Alder Ego, his quartet formation bringing together four major talents from the buzzing Finnish jazz scene. Here, Leppänen is joined by trumpeter Tomi Nikku (of Bowman Trio), saxophonist Jarno Tikka and bassist Teemu Åkerblom.

Together they create forward thinking jazz music of the now: melodic, flowing, and full of surprises. The music moves forward naturally, carrying with it multiple levels of discovery. Leppänen's musical vision has cubist undertones, and the Alder Ego tracks takes unexpected turns yet maintain their melodic clarity at all times. Each member brings forth his soloistic prowess, with the frontline of Tikka and Nikku on sax and trumpet, respectively, shining through. That being said, this is small group jazz at its best: lean yet multilayered, melodic yet challenging, and ultimately based on teamwork with very rewarding results indeed.

"Flight", released digitally on July 25, the first taste of the Alder Ego album "II" to be released by We Jazz Records on October 26 on black and white vinyl editions (including printed inner sleeve with liner notes and full download), CD and digitally.

Tracklist:
01. Alder Ego - Leviathan
02. Alder Ego - Le Chant Des Sirènes
03. Alder Ego - Cubism
04. Alder Ego - Vultures
05. Alder Ego - Flight
06. Alder Ego - Blood Moon
07. Alder Ego - Solitude