With the release of his first recording in 2003 entitled Changing Places, Norway’s Tord Gustavsen came forth with a new and unique sound that commanded worldwide attention, an extraordinary achievement given the rich history of jazz piano. With only a few carefully chosen notes, he draws listeners into a musical world where melody is cherished as much as freedom to explore textures and soundscapes. Taking care to play only that which says something and leaving space for listeners to savor what has been said, his bands unite beauty and emotional intensity, touching souls in a way that many describe as spiritual.