Swedish trio Fire! consists of saxophonist Mats Gustafsson, bassist Johan Berthling and drummer Andreas Werliin. Gustafsson is one of the strongholds of the Scandinavian free jazz scene. Since 2009, Fire! - and their offshoot, the big band Fire! Orchestra - released a whole series of albums, all on Norwegian label Rune Grammofon, like the most recent one Testament (produced by Steve Albini). Whether you call their music "jazz" or "rock", Fire! excels in a raw, dark sound, hypnotic drum-and-bass grooves and Gustafsson's ecstatic saxophone style. Smashed Roadburn this year!
Photo by Dries De Roey
I LIKE TO SLEEP
I Like To Sleep is one of Norway's most acclaimed young power jazz bands. The trio, consisting of Amund Storløkken Åse (vibraphone, mellotron), Nicolas Leirtrø (bass, guitar) and Øyvind Leite (drums) is known for their explosive energy and innovative sound. Like Fire! they combine the heavy sound of rock and the free spirit of jazz. In 2025, they will celebrate their ten-year anniversary with the release of a fifth studio album, featuring as guest musician ... Mats Gustafsson of Fire!.
Photo by Thor Egil Leirtrø
