Northern Sunrise by Mika Pohjola, Steve Wilson, Ben Monder, Massimo Biolcati & Mark Ferber

"What makes this perhaps one of the best of 2009 is that it is jazz that truly captures the emotion, refinement, and power of great classical music."
All About Jazz.

"A disc full of creativity and surprise"
Jazz Review

"Mika's playing, writing and listening skills are unique. He does it all with ease. Very few can do all these things so masterfully."
Gary Burton

Mika Pohjola's "Northern Sunrise" stands as a profound testament to his prowess as a pianist and composer within the New York music scene. This album serves as a rich tapestry of both meticulously crafted compositions and inspired improvisations, showcasing a previously unexplored landscape of harmonies and rhythms. Collaborating with talents like saxophonist Steve Wilson, guitarist Ben Monder, bassist Massimo Biolcati, and drummer Mark Ferber, Pohjola presents his most versatile and imaginative work to date.

With a discography spanning twenty-five albums, Pohjola's musical journey ranges from intimate solo piano improvisations to grand orchestral productions. Yet, amidst this diversity, his music remains a testament to inclusivity and synergy among performers. His measure of success lies in enabling each member of his ensemble to shine brilliantly.

Hailing from Helsinki, Finland, Pohjola's musical pilgrimage led him to the United States in the early 1990s. Under the guidance of pianist Sal Mosca and with the support of Gunther Schuller's production, he made his impactful debut. Throughout his career, Pohjola has collaborated with a constellation of talents including Miguel Zenón, Chris Cheek, Drew Gress, Fernando Huergo, and more, consistently pushing musical boundaries.

Notably recognized as a Steinway Distinguished Artist since 1997 and a significant visiting artist at Berklee College of Music since 2006, Pohjola's contributions extend beyond jazz. He has been commissioned for notable classical compositions, showcasing the breadth of his musical prowess and innovation.

"In our constantly evolving musical syntax the phrase 'global jazz' is showing up with increasing frequency. Usually the term's connotation is simply geographic, as in 'jazz from around the globe;' but, with the help of artists like Mika Pohjola, it is evolving to have a deeper cultural significance. The young Finnish pianist and composer is one of those artists who would make the universal language of jazz the lingua franca of this bold new age. His Northern Sunrise offers a smorgasbord of subliminal connectivity that reaches across and a bit under the surface of the planet." -Jazz.com

BMG is the crystallization of Mika Pohjola's artistic vision, spanning composition, performance, and production. Pohjola's musical journey took flight under the wing of the composer legend Gunther Schuller at GM Recordings. Recognized for his exceptional talent, Pohjola became a Steinway artist in 1997. He continues to curate a diverse repertoire, crafting music of unwavering quality.

bluemusicgroup.com
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