JØRN ØIEN TRIO

DIGGING IN THE DARK (BLGCD011)


Recognized as one of Norway's leading pianists, Jørn Øien presents some intriguing new music on his first Bolage release.
Digging in the Dark is a deeply lyrical album, but the driving force of this music is the musicians' willingness to take risks, often balancing on the edge of the abyss. In fluent interplay with Per Zanussi and Torstein Lofthus, Øien mixes composed and improvised music, creating art that swings from the ecstatic to the aschetic.

Jørn Øien (piano)
One of Norway´s leding pianists for many years, Narvik-born Øien regularly works with Beady Belle, Geir Lysne Listening Ensemble and Kjersti Stubø Quartet, as well as extensive freelance work. Previous outings include Jørn Øien Trio Short Stories w/ George Garzone and Moment Paradiso, which was nominated for the Norwegian Grammy for 2008.

Per Zanussi (bass)
In addition to his own Zanussi 5, Per is a member of MZN3, Trespass Trio (with Martin Kuchen and Raymond Strid), Crimetime Orchestra and several other projects. Zanussi has recorded or played on occasion with Hamid Drake, Louis Moholo, Bobby Bradford, Sabir Mateen, Franklin Kiermyer, Stephen O'Malley, Axel Dörner, Bugge Wesseltoft, Mats Gustafsson, Seijiro Muriyama, Kjell Nordeson, Terrie Ex, Kevin Norton, Ernesto Rodrigues, Tetuzi Akiyama and others.

Torstein Lofthus (drums)
One of Norway´s hardest working drummers, Torstein is a member of Shining, Elephant 9, Håvard Stubø Trio, Jon Eberson Trio, and Morten Halle Quartet,. Works on a regular basis for these artists: Maria Mena, Maria Solheim, Torun Eriksen. Some of the artists he´s been working for includes: Marit Larsen, Silje Nergaard, Beady Belle, Eivind Aarseth, Noora Noor, Solveig Slettahjell, Bertine Zetlitz, Kurt Nilsen, Rockettothesky.