AINON - Within (2024) [Hi-Res]

AINON, a Helsinki-based ensemble founded by cellist-composer Aino Juutilainen, returns on We Jazz with their second album, out 6th September. On Within, the four-piece plays music influenced by jazz, contemporary music and classical music, all morphed together into a highly inspired musical vision that echoes the legacy of the likes of Abdul Wadud and Jimmy Giuffre. The music of AINON might be best described as "avantgarde chamber jazz", with original compositions and the individual voices of the four players both playing an integral part in the music.

In addition to Aino Juutilainen, the quartet includes Merimaija Aalto (violin / viola), Milo Linnovaara (saxophone / clarinet / flute) and Joonas Leppänen (of Alder Ego, drums). From the rolling groove of "Komorabi" to the ambient classical soundscapes of "Water", AINON sounds at ease with the different shades of their core sound throughout the album. As an active live band, AINON has honed their sound during a healthy run of live shows during the years between albums 1 & 2 and now they are ready to take the next steps in developing their deep, moody, melodic and highly original sound. AINON appears at Helsinki Odysseus Festival on July 19, premiering the new work.

Aino Juutilainen, cello
Merimaija Aalto; violin, viola, voice
Milo Linnovaara; saxophone, clarinet, flute
Joonas Leppänen, drums