Although the instrumentation is unusual (three saxes, piano, bass and drums), the results are surprisingly prosaic. Drummer
Espen Rud is a popular figure in Finland, and one whom has recorded with a host of American jazz musicians from
Dexter Gordon to
Chet Baker. Here, he runs his group through eleven of his original compositions, which range from the mundane to something a bit more creative. On a couple of pieces,
Rud voices the saxes to take advantage of their unique sound: He harmonizes them like an accordion on "Frøken Selma," and tightly like the group,
Supersax, on "Nilsegutt." Pianist
Vigleik Storaas and bassist
Terje Gewelt perform competently throughout. The exquisite packaging of the CD contains photos and detailed biographical information. ~ Steve Loewy