Martin Nodeland - Tributaries (2025)

“Tributaries” is the thrilling new album from Norwegian guitarist/composer Martin Nodeland. Already someone to watch, with “Debut” (2019) and “Origins” (2020) under his belt, he now presents a set of pieces that feel ambitious with intent and alive with personality. Featuring Will Vinson on alto saxophone, with support from Martin Sandvik Gjerde (piano), Alexander Hoholm (bass), Raymond Lavik (drums), plus Erlend Vangen Kongtorp (tenor sax on tracks 1 & 5), “Tributaries” shows Nodeland in top form: compositional maturity, technical fluency and real emotional pull.

Right from the opener “Straight Out The Gate,” there’s an urgency and clarity in Nodeland’s guitar. The melody grabs you, the rhythm section pushes, and Vinson’s alto adds an edge (sometimes lyrical, sometimes assertive) that raises the stakes. “Awakenings” follows with a gently unfolding atmosphere, lyrical guitar lines, shifting harmonies and moments of space. It’s the kind of track that balances accessibility and sophistication.

One of the album’s high points is “Celestial Bodies”, almost ten minutes of shifting light and shadow. Nodeland’s guitar work here is especially impressive – one moment delicate, weaving around Vinson’s soaring lines, the next, more muscular, demanding attention. “A Human Thirst” similarly glows, the group collectively breathing, responding, pushing the dynamic, with the rhythm section laying a bedrock to support adventurous flights. “The Comet” brings sharper angular motifs; “Awakenings II” works like a brief interlude, a moment for reflection before the closing “Yours Sincerely,” which rounds off the album with warmth and lyrical grace.

“Tributaries” doesn’t rest on one mood or one approach. There are moments of swagger, moments of introspection, of tension and release. Vinson’s solos are superlative, often feeling like conversations with the guitar. Nodeland’s own solos show both technique and heart, not just speed or chops but real storytelling. Overall, “Tributaries” feels like the work of an artist coming into his full voice. It’s ambitious, thrilling, and deeply musical. Nodeland and Vinson shine, backed by a stellar ensemble. Highly recommended.