Jan Lundgren Trio - For Listeners Only (2001)

Beginning with the funky, Van Morrison-ish shuffle "Do It Yourself," Jan Lundgren and mates, drummer Rasmus Kihlberg and bassist Mattias Svensson, come on like a background group from a '60s European ski film. Pianist Lundgren has a light and measured presence on the keyboard not unlike another '60s icon and trio leader, Dave Brubeck. In fact, much of For Listeners Only is reminiscent of Brubeck's '60s output. While this is definitely not smooth jazz, Lundgren and crew do seem to be able to walk the line between jazz-pop and serious improvisation much like Brubeck and, say, Lou Donaldson did. "Waltz for Aldon" is a sunny little number you'll find yourself humming long after. "Time to Leave Again" is another standout, with its minor-sounding intro full of ennui. Sonically, with the limited trio setting, things get a little bland and Lundgren often hovers introspectively at a cool and mellow midtempo for most of the disc. Nonetheless, if you just want to sit back and daydream over some hot chocolate before heading back out onto the slopes, this'll do just fine. ~ Matt Collar

Personnel: Bass – Mattias Svensson; Drums – Rasmus Kihlberg; Piano – Jan Lundgren