Danish Pianist Rasmus Sørensen Announces Double Album Release: “Balancing Act” & “Traits” on March 15th, 2024
Rasmus Sørensen
Traits // Balancing Act (Double Release) (April Records, March 15th)
April Records announce the signing of rising-star Danish pianist Rasmus Sørensen with a special double release this March 15th which combines Balancing Act – a brand new offering recorded in New York City with Kendrick Scott and Alexander Claffy – with the first physical release of his 2022 debut Traits, recorded back home in rural Denmark.
Already an active member of Copenhagen’s jazz scene, Sørensen relocated to New York City in 2018 to pursue his studies at the Manhattan School of Music on a full-tuition scholarship. Within five years he’d proved himself as a compelling creative force, playing alongside some of the scene’s most reputable musicians and performing his original compositions in some of the world’s most revered jazz clubs.
In line with New York’s fast paced spirit, Sørensen received a phone call from Claffy and immediately headed into the studio to record a selection of American Songbook classics, a Coltrane number and a handful of originals with two veterans of the city’s prestigious scene. Having never played together before, with no preparation and a total of three hours to record, the resulting music is energetic, spontaneous, playful and exciting.
Effortless groove, rich contemporary harmony, virtuosic improvisations, dextrous rhythmic complexity and intricate arrangements make for an adventurous and thrilling listen; the first meeting of three fearless and experienced masters of their craft.
The music on Balancing Act tells only half the story of this exciting young artist though.
Sørensen’s powerful debut Traits, inspired by the scenery, feelings and momentum of his time in New York, was released quietly on digital services in June 2022.
April Records will reissue it on LP and CD alongside his latest offering, painting a more complete picture of the artist and showing their commitment to his development.
Recorded in rural Denmark with Jon Henriksson (double bass) and Francesco Ciniglio (drums) it’s rooted in tradition with a vivacious forward-thinking sense of modernity.
Jazzfuel