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Jazz Articles about Óskar Kjartansson

About Óskar Kjartansson

Album Review

Freysteinn Gíslason is an Icelandic double bassist and composer whose musical path started at home before taking him to the Royal Conservatorium in Den Haag. That background clearly shapes his playing, yet what truly sets him apart is his restraint. He has little interest in turning every track into a showcase of virtuosity. Instead, he hunts for atmosphere, tension, and emotional clarity, preferring to let the music emerge through patience rather than brute force. The quartet he gathered ...

Album Review

Freysteinn Gíslason: Að einhverju / To somewhere

Read "Að einhverju / To somewhere" reviewed by Glenn Astarita

by Glenn Astarita
December 9, 2024

Emerging from Iceland's volcanic landscape--a land where glaciers and geysers conspire to create heavenly magic--Freysteinn arrives with their third sonic missive, Að einhverju/To somewhere. This is not your grandmother's jazz album; it is a musical expedition that pirouettes between traditional Icelandic folk whispers, rock and a progressive jazz swagger. Along with the melodic complexities of prominent guitarist Hilmar Jensson, the band crafts a soundscape that's equal parts cerebral and visceral. The title track “Að einhverju/To Somewhere" unfurls like ...

Album Review

Freysteinn Gíslason: í allar áttir en samt bara eina

Read "í allar áttir en samt bara eina" reviewed by Glenn Astarita

by Glenn Astarita
January 4, 2024

Allar Áttir En Samt Bara Eina is an LP by Freysteinn Gíslason, an Icelandic bassist known for his unique approach to music. His band often blends various influences into the program, incorporating elements of jazz, blues, and experimental sounds. His bass playing is known for its depth and versatility, often creating intricate melodies and rhythms which captivate listeners.The LP title, which translates as “In All Directions but Still Just One," suggests a diverse exploration within a unified theme. ...