Eastern Influence by Polymetrum Ensemble

For the East Europeans, jazz during the Cold War was a symbol of freedom. With limited access to American jazz, they sought inspiration in classical music, as well as the local folk music tradition, and created their own form of jazz, with a very special sound.

Composer Rasmus Henriksen, has made an imaginary journey behind the Iron Curtain, in search of inspiration for his new album. Not to imitate Eastern European jazz, but to use it as a starting point for his own music.

Eastern Influence is a tribute to the Eastern European jazz musicians and composers who had their work behind the Iron Curtain. A suite in 4 movements, built as a framework around a number of improvising soloists, all of whom have left their clear mark on the music.

The album is Rasmus Henriksen's third in his own name, and the first with Polymetrum Ensemble. A new 7 piece jazz ensemble based in Odense, Denmark, with some of the best musicians from the area. The band gave their first concert in 2019, where they performed Eastern Influence at Jazzclub Dexter in Odense

Jazz composer, arranger and trombone player from Denmark.

rasmushhenriksen.dk