"Frode Kjekstad; A new guitar voice from Norway
Twenty six years old and playing since age fourteen, Frode has raised eyebrows and warmed the cold days in Oslo for some six years. He is playing at the major jazz clubs in Norway, teaching at the Uneversity at Oslo and amazing all who hear him
I was introduced to his cd, "Presenting Frode Kjekstad", by Randy Johnston, who has teamed up with his young genius when touring Europe. The setting is an organ trio with Paul Wagnberg, a noted Scandinavian B3 man.
The set consists of "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" (Wayne) and five long versions of frode's originals. His writing is fresh and not to far out. The blend of the guitar and organ is good and at times is Wes and Mel Rhyne or Jimmy Smith and Kenny Burrell. More mellow yet no less swinging, I am exited over this sweet and bluesy pairing. There is a smoothness here that is unique.
This young man has a perfect sense of time and rythm. He is at home in slow tempos and blazing ones as well. His tone is sweet and as smooth and clean as can be. He is always clear and smooth and warm of tone.
Both Kjekstad and Wagnberg's solos are interest binding and lyrical. The blues pieces are so nicely stated and the themes they develop are mature and poised. Frode has great control of the instrument, chops dynamics and lyricism, all together.
This is a thoughtful presentation, full of good music, composition and smart interplay, focusing some northern light on a new jazz guitarist. If you like guitar organ trios you'll love this well done collaboration. If you insist on clean figures and impeccable tone, you wont't be dissapointed. If you love Jazz Guitar, this is for you."
Frank Forte, Just Jazz Guitar |
