There is something unsettling and almost wayward that underpins the music of Yelena Eckemoff’s new double CD, Rosendals Garden. It moves in directions you don’t always expect. Sometimes this gives it energy and spontaneity. At other times it raises the question – where is she going with this? Of course, to some extent all improvisation is about making it up as you go along, but Eckemoff seems to revel in lulling us into a sense of security with a groove or a lyrical tune and then gently disturbing us. It’s like gradually realising the table you’re eating from is on a slight slant.

Sometimes the trio are working very much together in a loose groove. At other times they are exploring ideas on their own. This is not without its appeal. There is a playful imagination at work here. Some catchy grooves and lyrical tunes. And constantly changing musical structures.

Eckemoff’s playing is classically inspired, often quite simplistic, full of warm, rhythmic dissonances. Usually it is Svante Henryson’s cello or bowed double bass that pulls everything together, carrying the tunes against tinkling, cascading rills, or riffs on the piano. This works best on tunes like Öresund Bridge, which has a groove that underpins the majority of its six minutes. Ruins Of Älvsborg has an electronic pulse over which Eckemoff and Henryson can freely emote. The compositions may all be Eckemoff’s, but when it comes to the performance, on most of the tracks Henryson is the bona-fide leader of the group.

At best this is moody, atmospheric music, constantly taking us places we do not expect. Occasionally it loses us, leaves us at sea, with no discernible structure to cling onto. This music is inspired by a visit to Sweden and the liner notes are a travelogue. Worth a visit.

Discography
CD1: ABBA Museum; Rodendals Garden; Gamla Stan; Country Orchard Café; Öresund Bridge
CD2: Skansen Park; Sunrise in Rimbo; Ruins Of Älvsborg; Storanden Nature Reserve; Strandvägen Pier; Gripsholm Castle
Eckemoff (p, kyb); Svante Henryson (clo, b, elb); Morgan Ågren (d, pc). RMV Studio, Stockholm, Sweden. 28-29 August 2024.
L & H Production. LHCD 80615139