Tord Gustavsen Ensemble - Restored, Returned (2009/2017) [Hi-Res]

Gustavsen's earlier albums have been for a low-lights piano trio, but this is a quartet set featuring the excellent Jan Garbarek-inspired saxophonist Tore Brunborg, plus guest appearances from singer Kristin Asbjørnsen. Brunborg, though wistfully Garbarek-like on soprano at the opening, is rougher and less ethereal than his model - closer even to Wayne Shorter's enigmatic jazziness on The Gaze. His powerful role makes Gustavsen's piano mainly supportive until halfway through, when the leader blossoms out on Left Over Lullaby No 1. Kristin Asbjørnsen's voice - banshee-like on high notes, but as raspingly bluesy as Carol Grimes on occasion - is always arresting, whether on free improv, floating lullabies or incantations of WH Auden poems. For those who felt Gustavsen's work was a bit pallid, here's the remedy. (John Fordham)

Tord Gustavsen - piano
Tore Brunborg - tenor and soprano saxophones
Kristin Asbjornsen - vocals
Mats Eilertsen - double-bass
Jarle Vespestad - drums

Digitally remastered from the original analog tapes