Sweden has long been known for its sophisticated jazz scene—both progressive fusion and contemporary jazz. In the latter case, you’ll find trumpet maestro and composer / band leader Erik Palmberg. The 2021 CD release of his second solo album In Between establishes Palmberg as an innovative taste maker on the current Swedish music jazz scene. Backed by Anton Dromberg (piano) and a range of fine musicians, including two drummers, the sound of the 10-track, 46-minute instrumental album is quite stately with Palmberg’s wonderful trumpet leading the sound.

Jazz fans might cite comparisons to jazz trumpet greats like Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard to the more progressive sound of flugelhorn / trumpet master Kenny Wheeler, yet the dignified aura of Erik’s Scandinavian musical finesse keeps In Between from going off the rails and becoming a free for all kind of jam-fusion session. In fact, all the tracks here are Palmberg originals save for a cover of “Taking A Chance On Love” written by Vernon Duke. The chemistry between the eight players performing on the album is first-rate while the co-production of pianist Anton Dromberg gives the sound its rare sonic appeal. Contemporary jazz fans will find a range of tasty instrumental sounds to enjoy on Erik Palmberg’s In Between.