Polaroids is the third full-length album from Swedish pianist/composer Emil Ingmar and is a continuation of the intuitive, melodic instrumental music that defined his 2020 debut album, Karlavagnen. Somewhat more stripped-down than Ingmar’s previous albums, the melodies and interaction between the musicians are the main focus of the music, which also features longtime collaborators Calle Rasmusson on drums and Fredrik Jonsson on bass. There are also guest appearances with Jonas Knutsson on saxophones and Markus Ahlberg on trombone.

The album was inspired by an old SX-70 camera that Ingmar started using to record everyday family life after becoming a parent and realizing that ordinary moments can often become precious memories. The primary message of this outstanding album is that music can also capture and preserve those moments, allowing us to return to and re-experience them whenever we choose. The recordings themselves were approached with minimal discussion, allowing the performances to develop through instinct, the natural chemistry that develops over years of playing together, and a shared sense of musical direction.

Polaroids begins with the title track, a piano, bass and drum trio with a strong beat behind the soulful piano. I can imagine this being a romantic slow dance as well as a reflective instrumental ballad - a great start! “Bjurtjärn” takes its name from the village in the forests of Värmland where Ingmar’s family has spent generations. The bass and piano share the melody in parts of the piece, and the piano leads in others. Obviously inspired by happy memories and a bit of nostalgia, it’s a beautiful piece! “June” adds saxophone to the mix to paint a bright and optimistic picture of early summer in Sweden. “The Country” is less than 1 1/2 minute long, but is a piano solo that expresses the peace and tranquility of being in a rural area away from the noise of the city. “Stone Skippers” is one of my favorites and adds the trombone to the ensemble. The horn carries the lead on much of the piece, giving it quite a different sound that really works! “Where Did You Go” adds some keyboard textures to the trio, giving the piece a somewhat haunting, otherworldly feeling. “Long Days, Short Years” is a piano solo with a strong melody and heartfelt expression - another favorite! “Home” overflows with warmth and affection. This time a lively duet for piano and bass, it’s sure to bring a smile. The album comes to a close with “Polaroids - Outro,” a variation on the opening track that is more animated with a much “bigger” sound. As the music fades out, it becomes a tender piano solo with a short, sweet dialogue with Ingmar and his young son that always brings a smile - even though the words are Swedish, no translation is necessary!

Polaroids is available to stream and download from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as on many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. Very highly recommended!