Release date 5 April 2024. Label: Howling Jazz!!!
Born into the rich tapestry of an Indo-Dutch-Creole heritage, Armand van Wijck is a globally inspired musician who weaves his multicultural experiences into captivating melodies. His music embraces a harmonious blend of modern jazz, impressionism and various folk influences, furthermore inspired by Nordic jazz icons. Armand’s work embodies unity through shared experiences, inspiring harmony amidst diversity.
Originally from the Netherlands, Armand has made a mark with his chromatic harmonica performances in his home country. When he moved to Sweden his modern jazz project evolved to what it is today. He got influenced by the genuine playing and Nordic sound of the Swedish musicians of his quartet, as well as by his partner, Riksspelman and violinist Magdalena Eriksson. Trying to reconnect with his roots while away from his home culture, he also picked up the suling, a traditional Indonesian bamboo flute.
”Chromatic harmonica player Armand van Wijck’s album, ”Nothing to declare”, is some of the best music I have heard this year. Magdalena Eriksson co-produced the album, along with Armand, and she plays violin and sings on one tune. Pianist Axel Liliedahl Nordstrom is a perfect fit for this band. Van Wiijck’s compositions contain elements of classical, jazz, and folk music, and Nordstrom sounds at home in any genre. Bassist Björn Petersson and drummer Johan Björklund form a great rhythm section. ”Nothing to declare” is not just a harmonica player with a backup band. This is a tightly knit quartet that has many wonderfull things to say.”
– Jazzviews – Tim Larsen
”This is the group’s first record, the title ”Nothing to Declare” refers to exile: that of his grandmother and his. It is jazz music with Nordic colors slightly tinged with Scandinavian folk, Indonesian touches where sometimes nostalgia for the country left behind points: a very Zen work played by very talented musicians!”
– La Gazette Bleue – Martine Omiécinsk
MUSICIANS
Armand van Wijck – harmonica, suling
Björn Peterson – double bass
Axel Liljedahl Nordström – piano
Johan Björklund – drums
Magdalena Eriksson – violin, vocals
LINKS
Howling Jazz!!! – Record Label
Armand van Wijck – Musikcentrum Öst