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Emil Karlsen
Emil Karlsen (b.1998) is a Norwegian improvising drummer currently based in the UK. Described as a “significant addition to the UK free jazz scene” and an “exceptional improv drummer”, he’s establishing himself on the improvised music circuit working the span from free improvisation to free jazz. Occupied with exploring the timbral and sonic possibilities of the drum kit, he performs with Philipp Wachsmann, Matthew Bourne, Phil Durrant, Ed Jones, and the London Improvisers Orchestra to mention some.
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James Mainwaring / Dave Kane / Emil Karlsen: The Exu
by John Sharpe
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 ...
Continue Reading“Significant addition to the UK free jazz scene ”
— Ian Mann (The Jazzmann)
“ Extraordinary sensitivity and restraint that successfully avoids the more obvious clichés of free playing”
— Daniel Spicer (Jazzwise)
“Brilliant and innovative young drummer”
— Tony Dudley-Evans
“An inherently ‘musical’ drummer whose playing has elicited comparisons with such greats as Elvin Jones, John Stevens and Rashied Ali”
— Ian Mann (The Jazzmann)
Music
Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson
