Lars Danielsson, Verneri Pohjola, and John Parricelli – TRIO (ACT, 2024)
Lars Danielsson, Verneri Pohjola, and John Parricelli come together to create TRIO, a jazz album recorded in the unique setting of Château Palmer in Bordeaux, France. This release is the second collaboration between ACT Music and Château Palmer, following an earlier project featuring Michael Wollny and Joachim Kühn.
The album was recorded in a wood-paneled salon at Château Palmer, offering a serene environment that complements the trio’s delicate and experimental sound. Danielsson, a long-time collaborator with guitarist John Parricelli, embraced the opportunity to introduce Finnish trumpeter Verneri Pohjola into the mix. This combination allowed for a fresh and masterful exploration of instruments and compositions, embodying the principle of “beauty through simplicity.”
The music, composed by Danielsson under time constraints following a major concert, emphasizes brevity and melody over lengthy solos. It prioritizes collective flow, allowing each musician to contribute without formal direction. Recorded without sheet music, screens, or headphones, the remarkable result is an organic and spontaneous sound that reflects the collaborative spirit of the project.
The album features original compositions as well as covers, including Duke Ellington’s Mood Indigo. Each track reflects a deep connection to jazz tradition while also paying homage to the French setting, with pieces like “Étude bleue” and “Lacour” nodding to western classical influences.
Musicians: Lars Danielsson on double bass & cello; Verneri Pohjola on trumpet; and John Parricelli on guitar.
Produced by Andreas Brandis
Recorded at Château Palmer in Margaux-Cantenac, France, 30.05.2024 – 02.06.2024
Recorded by Arnoud Houpert
Mixed by Bo Savik
Mastered by Klaus Scheuermann and Bo Savik
All photos by Julien Mignot
Cover art by Mark Harrington, “King Harvest Revisited” 2024, used by kind permission of the artist. Art print: Acrylic on linen, 35 x 39.5 cm
Buy TRIO.