Interpretations The Norway Sessions

Renowned Danish pianist and composer Carsten Dahl is set to release his new album, Interpretations The Norway Sessions with his Golden Ratio Trio feat. Swedish bassist Daniel Franck and Danish drummer Jakob Høyer.

This recording presents 13 original compositions, two by Dahl, one by Franck and ten by all three musicians.

Interpretations presents two distinct recording sessions that offer contrasting textures. The first session is characterized by a warm, melodically precise ambiance, while the second session embraces a rawer, more aggressive edge. This duality in expression ensures that the music remains compelling and evocative, with every nuance and detail thoughtfully crafted. The interplay between Høyer’s delicate drumming, Franck’s resonant bass, and Dahl’s emotive piano creates a rich tapestry of sound, revealing layers of meaning and intensity.

Interpretations showcases Dahl’s matured approach to the piano trio format. Over the years, Dahl’s style has evolved from his early bop influences to a more nuanced and sophisticated voice, drawing comparisons to jazz luminaries such as Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett. Dahl’s unique interplay of melody and rhythm now incorporates influences from European classical music, with inspirations ranging from Bach to Rachmaninoff, all while remaining deeply rooted in the jazz tradition.

Dahl describes the album with his signature poetic and introspective approach, stating:
“We interpret the wind’s sigh and the blood that bubbles inside us.”

He likens the creative process to a spiritual excavation, seeking the profound roots of musical expression. The trio’s approach is akin to the artistic philosophy of Pablo Picasso—where creativity emerges not from striving, but from a receptive and intuitive interplay. Dahl likens their work to “small paintings where the picture dictates the interpretations, and where the musician merely plays the role of paint and paintbrush.”

Interpretations challenges listeners to engage with music in new and profound ways. It is in the delicate balance between action and pause, expectation and surprise, that this music truly thrives.