EST play Vicar Street
"In the beginning it was Sweden, then Europe and now it's the world. If any one is in any doubt about how original, absorbing and dynamic this band is, then get Tuesday Wonderland." – Jazzwise
"Territory as stylish as it is individual. Tuesday Wonderland is the group's most rounded offering to date." – Downbeat
Since their very first Stockholm gigs in the early 90's, EST have done it their way. They've evolved organically, creating a soundscape that embraces electronica, dance and folk music in the spirit of free expression that characterises the best of Europe's new jazz.
Their tenth and latest CD, Tuesday Wonderland (ACT) marks another chapter in their persuasive group philosophy, winning acclaim in the US and even making the cover of Downbeat, the holy of holies, evidence that even Euro-skeptics across the Atlantic had submitted to their unique alchemy.
Drawing base elements from alt. country, jungle and drum 'n' bass, the grooves of bassist Dan Berglund and drummer Magnus Ostrum are now more assertive, and have grown in depth and texture. Svensson's urgent piano motifs remain the heart of the trio's sound, over which he lays ambient effects and lyrical solos that are firmly rooted in the meditative Nordic sound developed by pianist Bobo Stenson in the 70s.
A decade since their inception, there is an irresistible sense of playful curiosity and adventure about EST that shows no sign of waning, and their probing spirit has the sense of renewal that is the hallmark of great music, beyond category. They return to Ireland after one of 2004's most talked about gigs, a memorable night that left the Vicar Street audience breathless, uniting hardened purists and jazz newcomers alike. To those who would say that jazz is in decline, these three letters remain the perfect riposte. EST.
Support at both Vicar Street and Garter Lane will be provided by another exceptional three-piece, Microclimate. Led by bassist Ronan Guilfoyle with Sean Carpio (drums) and Joe O'Callaghan (guitar), Microclimate are set to release their eagerly awaited debut album this summer. Completing this trilogy is the very funky Organics, with drummer Kevin Brady, Justin Carroll on Hammond organ and John Moriarty on guitar. This internationally feted organ trio will support EST on the first of there Irish dates at the Solstice Arts Centre Navan.
