Datadyr: This We Know

Norwegian jazz trio Datadyr delivers a compelling sophomore album with This We Know, refining their sound into a sophisticated gem of modern fusion. Guitarist Odd Erlend Mikkelsen, bassist Øystein Høynes, and drummer Amund Nordstrøm draw from their Bergen roots, blending American blues, country and jazz with a cool Nordic reserve. Their previous album, Woolgathering (Is It Jazz?, 2022), played like a musical resume, displaying skills in a scattered fashion. This follow-up sharpens the focus, prioritizing compositions over showmanship—as if the band swapped classroom doodles for architectural blueprints. Growth like this reminds one that evolution in jazz often sneaks up quietly without fanfare.

The opener, "This We Know," sets a purposeful tone, its nearly five-minute span layering guitar melodies atop a steady bass pulse, with drums anchoring the flow, coupled with driving unison lines and guest artist Aksel Røed's intense sax solo. It all signals maturity earned through intent. "Star Spangled Banjo" injects levity with Mikkelsen's nimble banjo work, twisting folk roots into jazz territory in a brisk three minutes—like a quick detour through imagined backwoods.

Mid-album highlights emphasize arrangement prowess. "Dallas Alice" starts with the guitarist's pensive phrasings, venturing into dreamy soundscapes, yet the band alters the flow and dynamics atop Nordstrøm's rolling, Latin-tinged rhythms. Here, the guitarist steers the band with melancholy and emotive lead soloing, whereas "Looking for Colorado" is a ballad that wanders reflectively, seeking closure in open expanses; yet, it opens up with a bit of bravado towards the closeout. The production preserves a raw, in-studio bleed, lending authenticity without gloss. The limited-edition vinyl pressing enhances this organic quality further—the analog warmth deepens Høynes's bass tones and adds subtle tube- like saturation to the trio's interplay, making their Nordic jazz fusion breathe with even greater intimacy.

What distinguishes This We Know is its equilibrium of exploration and structure. Unlike the debut's enthusiastic sprawl— picture ideas tossed like confetti—this effort weaves them into unified tales. It avoids revolution but excels in accessibility, inviting listeners without pretension. Admirers of Bill Frisell or Pat Metheny will recognize the terrain, yet Datadyr's northern chill brings fresh depth. In an era of sonic excess, this group thrives on knowing its boundaries—and respecting them. Essential for those valuing thoughtful progression over flashy tricks.