Release date: November 13th 2020
Helle Henning and Nikolaj Hess have once again been in New York to record an album, this time joined in the studio by the bassist and drummer from Norah Jones’ legendary “Come Away with Me” album – Tony Scherr and Kenny Wollesen.
The recordings are now to be released on a new album with ten original songs. The album presents Helle Henning’s deliciously sultry, dark vocals and reveals her capacity for composing beautiful themes and writing clear lyrics using intimate and personal prose.
Helle and Nikolaj have been drawn to the challenge of fusing American jazz with Nordic folkmusic for the past ten years. They love Tony and Kenny’s unmistakable sound and unique musical connection, which with Nikolaj Hess’ intricate piano playing and Helle’s Hennings intimate vocal ties it all together. A translucent atmosphere is created throughout the album, settling in the landscape between jazz, folk and pop.
Helle Henning has been called the first Jazz Singer/Songwriter in Denmark. Her music is both present and timeless, and she writes lyrics that, while being poetic and beautiful, comes across as earthed and easy to relate to. On As Long As We Both Know the lyrical content is backed by musicians who in their own way are equally poetic in their expression.
As Long As We Both Know is an album that you can chose to listen to carefully and immersed, or you can chose to have it running as the back drop to a beautiful and evocative evening. However you chose to listen, rest assured that you are in great hands.
”Here is a voice that does not have to exaggerate in any way, but immediately fascinates us with its personality.” (Boris Rabinowitsch/ Politiken)
“The expression is timeless, yet very contemporary. It’s Nordic, melancholic and extremely jazzy. An empathetic calling card from an intense voice that is rich in facets” (Jazznews DK)
Helle Henning: Vocals
Nikolaj Hess: Piano & Rhodes
Tony Scherr: Bass
Kenny Wollesen: Drums
Matthias Heise: Harmonica (track 2, 5)
Kirstine Elise Pedersen: Cello (track 3, 6, 9)
August Wanngren: Accordion (track 10)
Julie Boda & August Wanngren: BG-vocals (track 7)
All compositions and lyrics by Helle Henning
If Your Life Was a Movie
The Way You Make Me Feel
As Long as We Both Know
I Am No Shining Star
When Love Was You
Love is Right Here
Knock on Wood
I Never Will Forget
The Sweetest Moment
Little Bird