Timo Lassy

"The seven tracks on the disc, all written by Lassy, seem to form a thematic whole and succeed in maintaining a coherent, magic mood."

"The delicate interplay flourishes on the tetchy and heavy groove of Zomp, the hypnotic pulse of Kobi and the polyrhythmic drive of Telemagenta. Live Recordings 2019–2020 is a slam dunk of restrained energy and vivid communication."

Maarit Kytöharju is a Helsinki-based photographer who specialises in taking photos of music and musicians. She made us a compilation of 12 photos reflecting the shifting moods in live music in Finland in 2020.

Bassist Antti Lötjönen is one of the busiest Finnish jazz players, having played on well over 100 records, and in dozens of groups. His solo debut was released in April, just a day before Lötjönen turned 40. This summer, touring will have to wait, but Lötjönen doesn’t mind the breather. In Wif Stenger’s interview, the bassist talks about his music and team playing.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused an abrupt and total dissolution of the work opportunities and income of music professionals. Freelance musicians, concert venues and festivals have been the hardest hit, but the long-term impacts of the crisis will reverberate throughout the sector. FMQ talked to representatives of organisations in the field of music in Finland to gauge how they feel about the current situation and outlook. What have we learned about the music sector in the light of the crisis so far? Are there any potential positive outcomes?

"Concerning the musical styles on this record, Lassy & co. most likely has faith in the old proverb saying, if it ain't broke, don't fix it."

The music on Jukka Eskola Soul Trio's album is straightforward, stylish and groovy Soul Jazz, almost directly from the 60s. However, the discerning listener will find details with a more recent time stamp.

Two jazz professionals, journalist Andreas Müller and label manager Dave Stapleton, had a brief chat about Finnish jazz prior to Jazzahead! 2017, the international jazz expo and showcase festival taking place from 27 until 30 April in Bremen, Germany.

"Indeed, it is hard to imagine how Lassy’s quintet could sound any tighter or exuberant as they deliver their well-honed blend of soul jazz, hard bop and Latin jazz."

...Staging six days of jazz at the beginning of the Christmas season was a risky undertaking, but We Jazz’s astute programming decisions made it work...