For Lullaby, Norwegian trumpeter Mathias Eick draws on the quartet formation in a programme that includes some of his most exploratory and improvisatory qualities, with a cast of ECM familiars Kristjan Randalu and Ole Morten Vågan on piano and bass, and new arrival Hans Hulbækmo on drums.

There’s a sense of abandon within these melodic songs, as the musicians flow smoothly between harmonies, collectively building momentum from within the forms. Eick’s immediately recognizable and soothing tone is often confronted by Randalu’s in turns lyrical and energetic keyboard-flights, soaring above a propulsive, always engaging rhythm section.

1. September [5:16]
2. Lullaby [6:57]
3. Partisan [4:54]
4. My Love [6:10]
5. May [4:42]
6. Hope [4:50]
7. Free [5:42]
8. Vejle (for Geir) [6:53]

The album, which was recorded at Rainbow Studio in Oslo, opens on the achingly poignant, yet furtively resonant September and some laid back ambiance showcased with the sublime title track Lullaby and then we get the veritably glistening Partisan, a delicately distilled vein of hope that flows throughout My Love, the sumptuous May, before the breathy, late night-hued Hope, the atmospherically-charged, emotively haunting Free, and then Eick’s immediately recognizable and soothing tone is brought to the fore when the scintillating, nay flourishing Vejle (for Geir) brings the collection to a close.

“I’m so inspired by ECM recordings from the 70s, particularly by the Keith Jarrett albums with the so-called European quartet – the freedom they had. Albums that are milestones in many people’s lives, including mine. So my idea was to create a band influenced by that energy – a different energy – and that acoustic sound.” - Mathias Eick.

Musicians:
Mathias Eick - Trumpet, Voice, Keyboard
Kristjan Randalu - Piano
Ole Morten Vågan - Double Bass
Hans Hulbækmo - Drums

Official Purchase Link

www.mathiaseick.no