Articles by Ieva Pakalniskyte
Kenneth Dahl Knudsen: Beyond 'Sound American' – Crafting a Nordic Jazz Identity
by Ieva Pakalniskyte
What does finding an authentic musical voice in a genre so deeply connected to history and geography mean? The answer for Danish double bassist, composer, and educator Kenneth Dahl Knudsen is to transcend limitation and let identity shape the sound. A restless presence on the European jazz scene, Knudsen has resisted the pressure to “sound American" and instead draws from his Scandinavian roots, folk song, church music and rock energy, while taking influences from collaborators worldwide.
Continue ReadingDainius Pulauskas Acoustic Group at the Christopher Summer Festival
by Ieva Pakalniskyte
Dainius Pulauskas Acoustic Group Adomas Mickevičius LibraryChristopher Summer Festival Vilnius, Lithuania August 5, 2025 Vilnius Christopher Summer Festival has long demonstrated an ability to present quality concerts that connect with cultural roots and artistic ambition. On this warm August evening, in the courtyard of the Adomas Mickevičius Library, the festival featured pianist and composer Dainius Pulauskas with his Acoustic Group. The evening included a program of original compositions and reimagined works by Polish jazz legend ...
Continue ReadingJazzmeia Horn: Timeless Voice, Modern Spirit
by Ieva Pakalniskyte
In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary jazz vocalism, few artists navigate the intricate dialogue between tradition and innovation with the intelligence and visceral impact of Jazzmeia Horn. Her recent appearance at the Kaunas Jazz festival in Vilnius was more than a concert; it was a potent demonstration of an artist in full command of her voice and her message. For those encountering her for the first time, Horn's work consistently invites a deeper engagement with the jazz vernacular. A Dallas ...
Continue ReadingWajdi Riahi: Something That Feels Honest
by Ieva Pakalniskyte
Wajdi Riahi, a Tunisian-born, Brussels-based jazz pianist and composer, is rapidly emerging as a distinctive voice on the European jazz scene. His music, deeply rooted in the jazz tradition, is also infused with the rich melodic and rhythmic colors of his North African heritage, creating a captivating and highly personal sound. Riahi's playing is marked by a remarkable sensitivity, a lyrical touch, and a sophisticated harmonic approach, balanced with a willingness to explore moments of free improvisation and rhythmic complexity. ...
Continue ReadingWajdi Riahi at Brussels Centre for Fine Arts
by Ieva Pakalniskyte
Wajdi Riahi The Centre for Fine Arts Brussels, Belgium February 23, 2025 Brussels' Centre for Fine Arts, Henry Le Boeuf Hall, played host to Wajdi Riahi's solo piano concert last Sunday of February. The intimate atmosphere was further enhanced by the unusual seating arrangement, with audience members surrounding Riahi on stage as well as filling the traditional seating area. This created a palpable sense of connection, drawing everyone closer to the the music. A ...
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