KOKKO QUARTET (Finland)
Kokko Quartet - In Finnish Kalevala mythology kokko refers to a gigantic eagle, a mythical creature of the air having many forms, as does the music of Kokko Quartet. Based in Helsinki, the group plays recognisably Scandinavian jazz but draws influences from Indian and Arabic music as well as Cuban rhythms, creating a distinctive overall sound. Kokko Quartet performs songs written by pianist Johanna Pitkänen, saxophone player Kaisa Siirala and bass player Timo Tuppurainen. Together with drummer Risto Takala, these four musicians share an interest in free expression, jazz and world music. Intuitively, they move through the music with a spirit of great freedom in their interplay. Their debut album 'Like a River' was released in March 2013.
Kaisa Siirala - saxophones and flutes, Johanna Pitkänen - piano, Timo Tuppurainen - bass, Risto Takala - drums
Links:
"The music flows gently and smoothly, breaking boundaries between different musical genres. In a sensuous and subtle way, elements of jazz unite with Scandinavian influences, hints of Tango, Indian and Arabic as well as Cuban music" - Osku Rajala, Jazzrytmit (Finnish Jazz Magazine)
Australian Concert Dates 2015
Thu 3 Dec, Melbourne: Bennettslane Jazz Club - www.bennettslane.com (umbrellaed by the Melbourne Women's International Jazz Festival)
Fri 4 Dec, Castlemaine: Old Castlemaine Gaol - Dinner&Show-7.00 pm - Concert only 8.30 pm - www.trybooking.com/HTBW - or 5472 3749
Sat 5 Dec, Brisbane: Brisbane Jazz Club - Kangaroo Point - 7.30 pm - www.brisbanejazzclub.com.au - book: 07 3391 2006
Mon 7 Dec, Canberra: Embassy of Finland - 7.00 pm - book: ewa.walczuk@formin.fi - 02 6273 3800
Tue 8 Dec, Sydney: Foundry616 Jazz Club - 616 Harris Street, Ultimo - 8.30 pm - book: www.foundry616.com.au - 02 9211 9442
Wed 9 Dec, Melbourne: Paris Cat Jazz Club, Goldie Place - book: www.pariscat.com.au