Deliverables by Knut Kvifte Nesheim

Deliverables is Norwegian percussionist Knut Kvifte Nesheim's first release as bandleader. Together with some of the most exciting and active young jazz musicians in Norway, Nesheim’s debut delivers a strong collection of open and melodic compositions presented in an intimate and acoustic format.

The bassless quartet featuring violin, saxophone, electric guitar, and drum kit leaves ample room for delicate details and intricate interplay. The compositions avoid referencing Norway’s mountain landscapes and striking scenery (a common tendency within the country’s jazz community), and instead revolve around playful yet concrete and memorable motifs. There is also, of course, plenty of room for improvisation.

The song titles are taken from Steven Poole's humorous descriptions of modern and parodic office expressions in the book Who Touched Base in my Thought Shower?, which discusses linguistic trends with a critical wit close to Knut's own. The titles therefore act more as commentary on rather than descriptions of the pieces, but imaginative listeners will easily hear connections to the gorgeous and whimsical performances on the album. And as in all good jazz: a healthy balance between tradition, individual expression, and improvisation’s happy accidents.

Knut Kvifte Nesheim is an innovative drummer and composer hailing from Oslo, Norway. Drawing upon his roots in Norwegian folk music and jazz, Nesheim crafts a unique blend of experimental music, characterized by melodic and playful interplay, and a passion for improvisation.