Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Great Intentions (2025)

The Norwegian jazz trio Gard Nilssen's Acoustic Unity (GNAU) celebrated its tenth anniversary by expanding its lineup to a quintet, inviting two saxophonists, Signe Emmeluth and Kjetil Møster. The result of this creative union is the new album Great Intentions. The record is dedicated to the theme of communication and the idea of music as a universal language capable of overcoming misunderstanding. Inspired by Albert Ayler's phrase "Music is the healing force of the universe," the album explores how good intentions can lead to unexpected outcomes. Each of the five band members wrote one composition for the album, which gives the sound its diversity. The band's music, which lies at the intersection of tradition and modernity and is inspired by jazz legends like Ornette Coleman and John Coltrane, is complemented by an unexpected cover of Paul McCartney's song "Waterfalls." Ultimately, Great Intentions represents a vibrant dialogue between five talented musicians speaking the common language of music.

Alto Saxophone, Flute, Percussion – Signe Emmeluth
Co-producer – Kjetil Møster
Double Bass, Percussion – Petter Eldh
Drums, Gong, Percussion – Gard Nilssen
Mixed By, Mastered By – Jørgen Træen
Producer – Gard Nilssen
Recorded By – Henning Svoren, Jaran Gustavson
Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Percussion – Kjetil Møster
Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Bass Saxophone, Bass Clarinet, Flute, Percussion – André Roligheten
Vocals, Guitar – Jonas Alaska (tracks: B4)

Tracklist:
1-1 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Swedish Delight [4:57]
1-2 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Telemark Twist [6:47]
1-3 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Bankebrett [7:25]
1-4 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Waterfalls [4:43]
1-5 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Ostronology [4:08]
1-6 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Vinden Stiger [4:10]
1-7 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - John Wayne [5:42]
1-8 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - Dancing Flowers [2:45]
1-9 Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity - The Root [9:16]