Om utgivelsen
This album consists of my own compositions from over 40 years and reflects inspiration
from American post-war jazz. Over the years, I’ve been content to be a sideman for
leading Norwegian musicians, and my own songs have long remained tucked away in a
desk drawer. But now, at a mature age, I’ve gathered the courage to assemble a team
made up of three generations of Norwegian musicians:
Pianist Magne Arnesen belongs to the middle generation of Norwegian jazz, and we’ve
played together for more than 20 years. From the younger generation, I’ve brought in
my top picks: trumpeter Magnus Aannestad Oseth, tenor saxophonist Erlend Vangen
Kongtorp, and drummer Magnus Stefaniassen Eide. These outstanding musicians have
added youthful creativity and energy to the songs and have elevated them to a level
I could never have imagined. Big thanks to you all!
Some song titles refer to the things near and dear: “Little K”, “T & T”, “Jo-Johnnie-June”,
and “Sunny Boys” all allude to my grandchildren. The title “The Sideman” refers to my
own life as a musician. “Late Bloomer” is dedicated to trumpeter Erik Halvorsen, who,
with his CD releases later in life, was an important inspiration for me to do the same.
“November Song” refers to this. “Q’s Land” is a thank-you to guitarist Halvard Kausland,
who, for more than 20 years of collaboration, was a central mentor for both Magne
Arnesen and myself. “Fat Boy” is a greeting to everyone who was picked last for the
dodgeball team – from someone who was himself picked last for the dodgeball team.
“Thai Song 1 & 2” are the oldest of the compositions. They came about after I watched
a harrowing documentary from Thailand about the abuse of young girls; I sat down at
the piano, and suddenly the themes were there, which I later developed further.
A sincere thanks for listening to the album – I hope you enjoy the sound of my excellent
fellow musicians!
Agnar Aspaas, June 2025
Musikere
Agnar Aspaas - Bass
Magne Arnesen - Piano
Magnus Aannestad Oseth - Trompet
Erlend Vangen Kongtorp - Tenorsaxofon
Magnus Sefaniassen Eide - Trommer
