E.S.T. Symphony (2016)

"Esbjörn Svensson, the Swedish original who turned crossovers between jazz, pop and classical music into lasting art with EST, would have got around to this orchestral venture himself but for his accidental death in 2008. With its shapely themes, subtle pacing and big climaxes, his popular trios music was ideal material, eloquently confirmed here by arranger Hans Ek, the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic and four star jazz soloists, including brilliant Finnish pianist Iiro Rantala (Trio Toykeat). Svenssons own arrangement embellishes the rocking theme of "Dodge The Dodo", and the fugal EST favourite "When God Created The Coffee Break" has inquisitive woodwind lines crossing the Bach-derived bassline. Marius Nesets tenor murmurs amid pedal-steel glimmers on "Seven Days Of Falling", and Eks swooping flutes and deep strings sway over the characteristic smack and patter of original EST drummer Magnus Öströms brushwork on "Viaticum". Its all beautifully and devotedly done." (J. Fordham, Guardian; 4 uit 5 sterren)