Anders Jormin's album Once is a captivating and immersive musical journey, showcasing the bassist's exceptional skills as a composer and performer. The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including saxophonist Mark Turner, pianist Aaron Parks, and drummer Joey Baron, who bring a dynamic and nuanced energy to Jormin's intricate compositions.
From the opening track, "Circles", Jormin establishes a contemplative and meditative atmosphere, with lush harmonies and subtle melodic interplay. The album's title track, "Once", is a highlight, featuring Turner's soaring saxophone lines and Jormin's propulsive bass lines. "Spiral Dance" is another standout, with Parks' cascading piano lines and Baron's polyrhythmic drumming creating a hypnotic and entrancing groove.
Throughout the album, Jormin demonstrates his mastery of the bass, weaving intricate and expressive lines that anchor the music while also adding depth and texture. His compositions are intricate and sophisticated, yet also accessible and engaging, with a sense of flow and momentum that keeps the listener engaged.