Bleak Seasobs

Despite the title, this is some very warm and friendly early jazz-rock work from the brilliant Norwegian guitarist/composer. (This album originates from prior to Rypdal joining ECM, and is on Polydor Norway.) Recorded in 1968 with longtime collaborator Jan Garberek on sax & flute, this music features a large horn section, excellent bass work, and lots of rich/tasteful Hammond playing. Though only 21 at the time, Rypdal was already making incredibly mature, smooth and sophisticated music which - though sounding very 60's - still plays well today. Light-Latin and blues influences are heard; along with big-band arrangements that are by turns tightly arranged and charmingly loose.