Uusi Jazzi Klubiw/ Markus Holkkoat Studio Pelto LP

Uusi Jazzi Klubi means “New Jazz Club,” which is somewhat ironic considering these musicians have been around the block for quite a while. This is, after all, their second album together.

These sessions date back two years. It was the spring of 2024, and after the initial success of the first UJK album, drummer extraordinaire and prime mover Aleksi Tanhuala called and said he wanted to record another Uusi Jazzi Klubi album with the usual suspects at Jazzaggression’s own Pelto Studio. He had also brought Markus Holkko on board, and the group was ready to record.

The lineup featured Ilkka Uksila on vibes, Markus Kankkonen on electric bass and effects, Joona Hulmi on piano, rhodes, melodica, and flute, Aleksi Tanhuala on drums, and Markus Holkko on alto saxophone, flute, and Korg Mini S. With Fredrik Lavik as technician, we managed to capture around ten hours of tape. There was no pre-written material — the tape would roll, and the band would begin improvising.

A stunning recording an album well worth its place in any modern improvised modal jazz collection !