Erik Palmberg: Faces

In 2018 Swedish trumpeter Erik Palmberg burst onto the jazz scene withFirst Lines (Prophone). Burst is a bit strong based on the level of noise it made. But it is possibly an understatement when you consider the level of unique and personal articulation. Palmberg's quartet focused mostly on Palmberg originals and brought them to life in what has became a signature sound. You just knew there had to be more to come. Sure enough, three years later along came In Between (Prophone, 2021). The growth was obvious. Again, mostly original tunes were sharp and cohesive. Palmberg had something to say and he did so with verve.

That brings us to the present, where only pianist Anton Dromberg remains from the original ensemble. Dromberg brings a lot to all three recordings, but it is his connection with Palmberg that stands out. This latest offering, Faces, Is a deeper dive. Drummer Sebastian Voegler and double bassist Niklas Wennström now round out the quartet and provide Palmberg not only the musical skill sets, but also the grasp of Palmberg's bold intentions. They often stretch out which at times gives the recording a live feel. It also leads to elements otherwise lost.

Once again, Palmberg breathes a natural articulation into his music. Although there are many influences, he does not sound quite like anyone else. It is a rare to accomplish such a feat in this era with there now being so many jazz predecessors. He brings us vivid illustrations that are heartfelt and always have something to say. The expressionism put forth on this record is what jazz is all about. Anyone can play the charts. The select few can put themselves inside them. If there is a common theme on all three of Palmberg's albums, it is the melodic framework that is then expanded artfully and with intensity. The quartet itself goes where the music takes them with elite improvisational skills. They play off of each other gently, in service of the music, not of themselves. Dromberg is equally adroit at expanding the rhythm section to a fiery trio, as he is at playing his own masterful solos balancing Palmberg's savvy note selections. Still, it is as composer, trumpeter, and flugelhornist, that Palmberg is the key to this record's success. He manages to get exactly what he needs from his bandmates. At this level of music, that is no easy accomplishment. Palmberg then knows what to do with that springboard. He excels with fluidity and brings forth his vision with his own distinct vibe. This music is a product of input from all four musicians. Sure, they are Palmberg's compositions, but part of the success is due to Palmberg being open to input. II is what is best for the music. Egos were checked at the door. They all embrace the tunes in their own way, which leads to a highly creative marinade.

Faces is a triumph of jazz expressionism.

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