Jazz Articles about Emil Karlsen

James Mainwaring / Dave Kane / Emil Karlsen: The Exu

by John Sharpe
May 3, 2025

The Exu, a lean and volatile threesome, makes a forceful first impression on its self-titled debut. Composed of Leeds-based pairing of tenor saxophonist James Mainwaring (best known for his tenure in the Mercury Prize-nominated Roller Trio) and Irish bassist Dave Kane (a longtime collaborator of Paul Dunmall and Matthew Bourne), alongside British-domiciled Norwegian drummer Emil Karlsen, the group draws from improv, metal, hip-hop, and jazz. Across a dozen tightly coiled pieces-- five by Kane, three by Mainwaring, and four group ...