SHOWCASE NIGHT:
JULY 15th
A bus of 17 musicians/composers diverse in age, aim, thought, background, and stamina, is weaving its way to a landmark performance. We’re getting closer!
It would be naïve of me to expect that a shared compass of what’s good, bad, right, wrong, fair, and unfair, will be enough to effortlessly sail through this adventure of ours. But it will definitely help.
This wonderful, eclectic JJAZZ community of artists crafts a narrative that speaks of Lithuanian jazz, its’ bravery, uniqueness and eagerness and in less than a month, the stages in Aarhus and Aalborg will witness the ensemble presenting distinct programs, each a brainchild of their innovative creators. We say, let’s meet the showcase artists!
Spotlight on the Beat Keeper: Domantas Razmus
The rhythm of the ensemble is anchored by the drummer Domantas Razmus. His solo ventures, inspired by the likes of experimental electronica maestros such as Eli Keszler and Nihiloxica, explore the fusion of electronic and percussive elements. From ambience to distorted soundscapes, Domantas's performances are a journey through sound that captivates and challenges.
Introducing Broken Glass 4tet
Amidst the collective's vibrant expressions, the "Broken Glass 4tet" emerges as a unique entity. Masterminded by Pranas Kentra on guitar, this quartet includes Jievaras Jasinskis on trombone, Artūrs Duckis on bass, and Domantas Razmus back at the drums. Their music, a rich tapestry of genre-bending sounds, moves fluidly from the whimsical ironies of complex compositions to the earthy grooves of blues and the bold textures of rock-infused jazz.
Their latest offering, "Solitude," available on all major music platforms, exemplifies their versatility, embracing everything from modern rhythmic trends to the unfettered landscapes of free improvisation.
Spotlight on: Leonardas Pilkauskas
Leonardas Pilkauskas, a graduate from the Amsterdam Conservatory, has been an active force in Vilnius’s music scene since 2012, where his roles have spanned performing, composing, arranging, and teaching.
His latest works include two original compositions for a septet configuration featuring alto sax, tenor sax, trombone, trumpet, and a rhythm section, alongside another piece crafted for a sextet that pairs a sax quintet with a trombone.
The hallmark of Leonardas’s music lies in the repetition of motifs—a technique that not only defines the structural essence of his compositions but also engages listeners in a rhythmic and melodic embrace that is both familiar and invigorating.
Leonardas journey is one of continuous exploration and expression through music, where teaching others to find their voice has been as rewarding as performing and creating new works.
Introducing: Karolis Šarkus
Vilnius JJAZZ Ensemble's narrative continues to evolve with contributions from various artists, including the multi-talented Karolis Šarkus. His project showcases his prowess on the saxophone, backed by a JJAZZERS on trombone, piano, electric bass and drums.
Karolis Šarkus music compositions are a vibrant tapestry of sound, characterized by a well-balanced amalgamation of melodic lines that carry the colorful vibrancy of funk, rock, and the introspective quality of Scandinavian jazz. Embedded within these modern sounds are the delicate echoes of Lithuanian jazz and folk traditions, creating a rich, multi-layered auditory experience.
Vitalijus Gailius describes Šarkus’s music as a harmonious blend of various elements, each adding its unique flavor to the whole. The fusion of different genres underlines the versatility and breadth of Šarkus's musical influence, proving that Lithuanian jazz is not only alive but continually evolving.
Spotlight on: Gediminas Strupinskas
Gediminas Strupinskas, a recent graduate of the Aarhus Royal Academy of Music, brings a fresh perspective and refined expertise to the Vilnius JJAZZ Ensemble. His educational journey has not only polished his skills but also allowed him to cultivate a distinctive musical voice that resonates throughout his performances and compositions.
Inspired by giants of the jazz world such as Avishai Cohen, Brad Mehldau, Snarky Puppy, and Gerald Clayton, Gediminas's approach to music blends depth with daring. His works are a testament to his admiration for music that possesses both gravity and complexity.
Gediminas's signature style is marked by intricate melodies and rich harmonies, woven together in compositions that invite listeners on a journey of musical exploration.
A blend of old and new, tradition and innovation, a bridge connecting diverse musical landscapes, creating a narrative that is both uniquely personal and universally appealing.
Exploring the Sonic World of: Sheep Effect (Simonas Šipavičius)
Simonas Šipavičius, also known under his stage name Sheep Effect, merges jazz with the vibrant rhythms of electronic dance music. His debut album in 2019, Saxual Harassment, marked his unique approach by wrapping saxophone melodies in layers of drum’n’bass, techno, minimal, and IDM.
His music thrives in live settings where it gains new dimensions through sound effects and recording software. In 2022, Sheep Effect’s album Grandes Saxitos further expressed his avant-garde flair, noted by Emilija Visockaitė as "adventurous breaking of norms and pleasure of playing," making it a challenging yet rewarding listen.
Simonas is a recognized figure in the jazz and alternative music scenes across Lithuania, Europe, and Asia. He actively collaborates across genres and is also part of Sheep Got Waxed.
Connect with Sheep Effect:
Watch Sheep Effect Live:
So... And that's just night one. And even then, not all. Since we have a special featuring! It's a Danish duo that are joining us in our dream to make jazz collaborate beyond borders.
Have you heard of Kenneth Dahl Knudsen and Matias Fischer? Well... They'll be on this journey and they showcase their own journey and... And I can't just briefly mention them, they have so much to show and tell, so next week there'll be a post on them, stay tuned ;)
See you @headquarters
Together, we'll create a dynamic and evolving narrative of innovation, tradition, and musical exploration that not only defines the current Lithuanian jazz scene but also projects its future trajectory on the world stage.
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