Arild Andersen Group - Affirmation (2022) [24bi... -

Originally, bassist Arild Andersen entered the studio with his quartet—featuring (tenor saxophone), Helge Lien (piano), and Håkon Mjåset Johansen (drums)—intending to record a set of predetermined compositions. However, on the second day of the session, Andersen suggested they pivot toward collective improvisation.

A 23-minute exploration that begins with delicate, nocturnal atmosphere. It features "icy ripples" from Lien’s piano and searching, lyrical saxophone lines from Neset. Arild Andersen Group - Affirmation (2022) [24Bi...

The resulting album is structured as an unedited seven-part suite, divided into two long arcs: Originally, bassist Arild Andersen entered the studio with

A shorter, more "tempestuous" sequence where the group's interplay becomes more forceful, at times recalling the energy of 1970s free-jazz roots. Helge Lien (piano)