Undergrowth

This is the fifth album as leader by the Oslo-based trumpeter, who has long been a fixture on the Norwegian jazz scene. An alumnus of the Trondheim Jazz Orchestra, Powell’s long list of professional credits include work with Finnish artist Iro Haarla and fusion supremo Natacha Atlas. For Undergrowth, the trumpeter has put together a new line-up of musicians with backgrounds ranging from folk and jazz to early and electronic music. These eclectic influences are immediately apparent on an album that features a fascinating mix of elements, at once reminiscent of classic post-bop jazz, cool 1970s soundtracks, shimmering ECM-type soundscapes and focused sheens of thoroughly modern-sounding compositions. There is some beautiful individual playing, with Powell’s trumpet both adventurous and classically captivating. This is an excellent set that promises even greater things to come.