Embrace

Bassist Mattias Svensson has assembled a very good international trio of pianist Bill Mays and drummer Morten Lund for an enchanting set of music. Mays is a veteran of the American jazz scene. Lund is a Danish drummer who is no newcomer to the jazz scene. Svensson is a Swedish bassist who has established a nice resume'. Together they create a nice blend of European and American jazz that doesn't lean in either direction too much, and this is what makes it different and original. Mays brings an American aesthetic to Svensson's music. Both Svensson and Lund have big rich sounds, and they have a nice musical
sympatico and concept. Their repertoire is varied, not relying on standards, or any one stylistic approach. The funky and romping backbeat of "Shagit" is a nice contrast to the bluesy impressionism of "Bluetiful." Lund plays a wonderful solo on "Shagit." The interludes called "Fredriksson 2" and Fredriksson 3" are very enjoyable. I wish more people would assemble trios like this. Mattias Svensson has indeed created a unique trio of musicians playing a unique set of music.