Resonans is the second album from the Danish trio, Blåly, and what a beauty it is! Blending Scandinavian folk traditions, jazz, Nordic lyricism and chamber-like interplay, the group favors the expressive quality of their music over individual virtuosity as they create spacious, melodic music rooted in listening and collaboration. The trio consists of pianist Barbara Fiig, bassist Johan Kjaer Houver and drummer Timon Matern and was formed while the three were studying at the Royal Danish Academy of Music. Built around a shared interest in music’s ability to offer reflection, connection and emotional openness, the music for Resonans was composed while the three musicians were traveling in various countries and reflects on some of their experiences. All but one of the tracks are original compositions, and “Emigrantvisa” is a traditional Swedish folk song that the three artists arranged.

The group’s name, Blåly, is a made-up word that is open to interpretation. It is derived from the word “ly,” the Danish word for “shelter,” and reflects the feelings of safety and introspection the trio finds while making music and that they hope to share with their audience.

Resonans begins with “Bølger” (“Waves”), a gently-rhythmic piece that sets the gentle tone for the album. It opens with a bass solo before the piano and drums enter. Relaxed yet very expressive, it’s a great start! “Midt i alting” translates to “in the middle of everything” and begins with a simple but heartfelt piano solo. As the bass and drums enter, the piece gradually builds and becomes more intense until softening close to the end. “Det løser sig” has several meanings, but the warm and reassuring tone of the piece seems to indicate “don’t worry” or “it will work out.” The easy groove from start to finish makes this one a favorite! “Emigrantvisa” (“Emigrant Song”) is the Swedish folk song that the trio arranged. These songs originated in the 19th century, documenting the sorrow, hardship and homesickness of people migrating to the US. Much darker, but not without hope, it’s a very powerful piece of music that is beautifully-arranged and performed. “Sommerregn” (“Summer Rain”) is sooooo peaceful and relaxed at the beginning, developing a driving rhythm as it unfolds yet maintaining a very quiet demeanor - I really like this one, too! “Tid” (“Time”) has a very steady rhythm that feels like the passage of time (bass and drums) while the piano is much freer to wander and explore - fascinating! The title track comes at the end of the album and includes some otherworldly background sounds that are likely synth-generated - an interesting contrast to the acoustic piano, bass and drums. Those sounds run throughout the piece, but are more subdued whenever the piano has the melody. The slow-groove of the bass and drums is easy to get lost in until the music comes to an abrupt end.

Resonans is another great example of the amazing jazz that is coming out of Scandinavia these days! The album will be released on October 16, 2026 and is available to pre-order now on Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes. It will be released on vinyl on October 30, 2026 and on CD on December 11, 2026. More links will be added as they become available. Very highly recommended!