Christopher Dominique releases new album: “Jazz ex Smolandia” – a tribute to Småland’s forgotten folk songs
We are proud to announce the release of Christopher Dominique’s latest album “Jazz ex Smolandia,” a unique and exciting blend of the Swedish province Småland’s forgotten folk songs and modern jazz. The album, which will be released on October 22nd, is a bold and passionate project where traditional melodies are brought to life through creative jazz arrangements.
Together with violinist Filip Runesson and double bassist Johnny Åhman, Christopher Dominique takes the listener on a musical journey through Småland’s rich cultural heritage. The album also features exciting guest performances, including collaborations with harmonica player Ola Salo, who adds his distinctive sound and an extra dimension to the emotional melodies of the folk songs. Additionally, Fiddler Anders Svensson, a master of the Småland folk tradition, lends his deep knowledge and expertise to several tracks, giving them an authentic and timeless quality.
Christopher Dominique has previously been recognized for his genre-crossing projects, but with “Jazz ex Smolandia” he takes his artistic vision to a new level. By delving deep into Småland’s rich musical traditions, he aims to both preserve and revive these almost forgotten melodies for a modern audience. Each track is a tribute to the region’s history and culture, but with a contemporary and jazzy touch that feels fresh and relevant.
Introducing “Jazz in Scots”: Christopher Caird Dominique Pays Tribute to Great Grandfather George Caird with a new album blending his Scottish and Swedish roots.
Christopher Caird Dominique, a gifted Swedish pianist and composer, is set to release his highly anticipated album, “Jazz in Scots,” on September 15th, 2023. This remarkable album pays homage to the legacy of his great grandfather, George Caird, who served as a renowned violinist in the BBC Variety Orchestra from 1945 to 1963, and serves to reconnect the Swedish musician with his Scottish roots.
Drawing inspiration from historic recordings made in Glasgow in 1945, where George Caird’s mesmerizing violin performances left an indelible mark, Christopher Caird Dominique has meticulously crafted new arrangements of these timeless songs. Collaborating with accomplished musicians, Filip Runesson on violin and Johnny Åhman on double bass, the trio infuses new life into the melodies that once resonated through the airwaves.
‘Jazz in Scots’ is not just an album; it’s a journey through time and a celebration of the rich musical heritage that has been passed down through generations. This album showcases the fusion of jazz and traditional Scottish elements, creating a truly unique and captivating listening experience. Adding an extra layer of excitement to the album, “Jazz in Scots” features guest appearances by the harmonica virtuoso Ola Salo and the rising star of Glaswegian tenor saxophone, Matt Carmichael.
To kick off this musical odyssey, Christopher Caird Dominique and his ensemble are embarking on a UK and Scotland tour, starting with a live recording session at the world-renowned Abbey Road Studios on September 21st. This iconic venue has been the backdrop for countless legendary recordings, and it’s only fitting that “Jazz in Scots” will take its first breath here. The tour will continue with captivating performances in Glasgow on September 22nd, followed by dates in Skye, Inverness, Aberdeen, and St. Andrews on September 23rd and 24th.
The album was recorded in Hurfva Gramophones studios, Sweden.
Mixed by world famous producer Per Sunding at Tambourine Studios in Malmö, Sweden.
Mastered by Alex Wharton at Abbey Road Studios London.
About Christopher Caird Dominique:
Christopher Caird Dominique is a pianist and composer with a long successful career working with some of Sweden’s biggest stars in theatres, orchestras and in television. Currently on a major tour of Sweden with one of Sweden’s biggest pop/rock vocalists Ola Salo. With “Jazz in Scots,” he pays tribute to his great grandfather, George Caird, and brings the past into the present through a captivating blend of jazz and Scottish traditions.
