Tord Gustavsen Trio - Seeing Vinyl LP

With Seeing, pianist Tord Gustavsen opens a refined new chapter in his acclaimed series of trio recordings, which began in 2003 with Changing Places—now regarded as a modern classic. The Norwegian musician describes the new album, with its compact, concentrated song forms, as a reflection of his personal development: “going for the essentials in life and music.” Recorded in October 2023 at Studios La Buissonne in Pernes-les-Fontaines, the project continues Gustavsen’s commitment to pared-back expression and emotional depth.

Joined by longtime collaborators Jarle Vespestad on drums and Steinar Raknes on double bass, Gustavsen explores a wide-ranging repertoire: five new originals, two cantatas by J.S. Bach, a traditional Norwegian church hymn, and the 19th-century English chorale “Nearer My God, to Thee.” The trio’s interplay is built on restraint, drawing intensity from patience and nuance, while Gustavsen—ever a master of the form—imbues the music with his signature blend of jazz, gospel, blues, Scandinavian folk, and sacred music. The result is a recording that cherishes melody and radiates Gustavsen’s delicate touch and subtle gospel glow.