Jon Henriksson: Shapeshifter

Without the bassist, who would keep the band together? Well, Stockholm-based bassist Jon Henriksson keeps his group in line while still allowing for a fluid sound on Shapeshifter . Furthering the smooth turns turning up in Scandinavian jazz, the musician is softer in tone but nonetheless exciting. Of course, the album would not be half as good without a great team: including pianist Rasmus Sørensen, Jonas Backman on drums, saxophonist Karl-Martin Almqvist, as well as guitarist Pelle von Bülow and trombonist Rasmus Holm on select tunes.

Going for a mellow mood can be tricky. Sometimes the song can go on for too long, or they can get overly sentimental and seem weak compositionally. Henriksson does not linger too long, and he is not morose. There is a great balance between the musicians as they move through the pieces. "Saga Nomri Ngen" seems slightly choppy and moody, yet there is still an appealing quality. "Monkurt" gets the beat a little faster, yet remains consistent with the sonic themes played with previously. Guitarist von Bülow adds just the right touch as well, almost Pat Metheny-like. At other times, Almqvist shows his stuff, as on the title track, swaying smoothly to the beat, taking care of the tune responsively.

The last track, "Ses vid horisonten," is a little different. The tone has shifted, and it feels like a closing track, which it is. None of these tunes is a noise maker. Of course, that is not to say that they don't make an impression. "Chime Blues" gets the closest to unmistakably grabbing at the audience's attention, yet it does so in a fun, slightly humorous way. Though this is his second release as leader, his collaborations and partnerships are notable in other places. And compared to his debut, he has narrowed his style and made a coherent effort with Shapeshifter.