Mikroklima by Gustaf Ljunggren / Emil de Waal

Following the success of their 2023 release ‘Stockholm København’, two of Denmark’s most celebrated musicians in multi-instrumentalist Gustaf Ljunggren and drummer Emil de Waal present their fourth collaborative album.

Expanding on their growing reputation for crafting songs and sounds with masterful senses of subtlety, narrative and capacity to form meaningful connections with their collaborators and audiences alike, ‘Mikroklima’ is set to release on February 7th on April Records.

Emil de Waal has been one of Denmark’s leading drummers for three decades, best known for his work leading the band Kalaha and his collaborations with Elith ‘Nulle’ Nykjær, as well as performing alongside most of the finest names in modern Scandinavian jazz. Gustaf Ljunggren initially studied the saxophone at the Rhythmic Conservatory of Copenhagen, where whispers spread throughout the school that he was the best saxophone player in town and yet never practiced. His career has seen him prove that he can bring grace, musicality and heart to any instrument he touches, from the pedal steel guitar, to the bass, piano, and more.

‘Mikroklima’ is a testament to and celebration of musical growth, community, and the joy of musical gathering. One element that truly sets this album apart, is the bold move of inviting a group of 12 year old school children from a music class into the studio to record alongside Gustaf and Emil. Drawing from years of experience leading music workshops with young musicians, on Mikroklima Ljunggren and de Waal wanted to capture the sound of musicians from different generations and experiences coming together to contribute their ideas to their compositions.

Showcasing Ljunggren’s colorful, comforting, folk-influenced approach to harmony and songwriting alongside de Waal’s distinctive touch on the drums, crafting simplistic yet creative grooves that feel as pleasing and refreshing as they do restrained and purposeful. As each piece unfolds, it becomes more and more apparent how present and communicative the duo are, playing only what the music needs and placing more weight on texture and feeling than soloistic flair.

‘Mikroklima’ is an organic, generous offering that shows Gustaf Ljunggren and Emil de Waal doing what they do best: connecting with music.