Myths & Beliefs by Mika Pohjola, Mick Goodrick, Bruno Råberg, Roberto Dani
Please note! This album is released as a "Remastered Expanded Edition" with 28 tracks, including two tracks Live in Japan: https://bluemusicgroup.bandcamp.com/album/myths-beliefs-remastered-expanded-edition
The one word that best describes Mika Pohjola's debut as a leader is "original." The melodic strength of Pohjola's material suggests sources in the traditional music of Finland, where he was born, and Sweden, where he first studied jazz with a Spanish instructor. "I'm not interested in writing variations on the folkloric material," Mika insists, "but I like the idea of a general folk audience. So I write my own folk material."
Pohjola's strength is his ability to make something new of these influences and concepts. The empathy of the trio - plus guest guitarist Mick Goodrick on six tracks (including the three different sightings of "The Bear" that serve as strategically placed interludes) - reinforces the unity of the compositions.
Pohjola, as a pianist, is a master of tension and release, bassist Bruno Råberg (Full Circle, Orange Then Blue) complements and swings, drummer Robert Dani (Enrico Rava, Devil Doll) delivers both power and delicacy, and guitarist Goodrick is his unpredictably delightful self, whether burning, rambling or singing lyrically.
Original music, unique concepts, extraordinary playing - it all adds up to one of the most persuasive debut albums in recent memory.
-Bob Blumenthal
Tracklist
| 1. | Tyrant Krinippos | 6:29 |
| 2. | Goddess Arsinoe | 8:57 |
| 3. | Before Dawn | 5:50 |
| 4. | The Day of the Bear | 3:00 |
| 5. | Dionysios | 10:37 |
| 6. | Mood 4:30 a.m. | 2:58 |
| 7. | The Night of the Bear | 0:46 |
| 8. | Magneten | 5:28 |
| 9. | The Myth of the Old Man | 5:31 |
| 10. | Next Morning of the Bear | 0:42 |
| 11. | Fall of 1978 | 8:49 |
| 12. | Kindergarten | 6:48 |
| 13. | Kaféet | 4:12 |
Credits
Mika Pohjola - piano & compositions
Bruno Råberg - bass
Roberto Dani - drums
Mick Goodrick- guitar
License
All rights reserved.
BMG is the crystallization of Mika Pohjola's artistic vision, spanning composition, performance, and production. Pohjola's musical journey took flight under the wing of the composer legend Gunther Schuller at GM Recordings. Recognized for his exceptional talent, Pohjola became a Steinway artist in 1997. He continues to curate a diverse repertoire, crafting music of unwavering quality.