About

The Norwegian Grammy nominated trio Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity has since the beginning in 2014, released three critically acclaimed albums; «Firehouse», «Live In Europe», and «To whom who buys a record». On 15^th July 2022 they released their debut album «Elastic Wave» for the world’s most important record label for jazz; ECM records, and did an extensive release tour with their new music. The latest album is still receiving great feedback from listeners and journalists all over the world.

The trio has performed more than 150 concerts in Norway, Europe, Japan, USA, Canada and Brazil. After receiving great reviews for their concerts at Winterjazz in New York, at Jazzahead in Bremen, the concert together with Joshua Redman and Ambrose Akinmusire at Nilssen´s residency at Molde International Jazz festival in 2019, they are pointed out as one of the most exciting trios on the European jazzscene these days.

Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity:

Petter Eldh : acoustic bass
André Roligheten : acoustic saxophones
Gard Nilssen : acoustic drums

The three musicians are very active and sought after, and you might have heard them in the following bands and acts: Django Bates, Pat Metheny, Bill Frisell, Trondheim Jazzorkester, Koma Saxo, Susanne Sundfør, SKRIM, Friends & Neighbors, Bushman´s Revenge, Peter Evans and Enemy.

The music is original and composed by all three band members, with a focus on interplay, groove, creativity, dynamic and energy with plenty of room for improvisation. Acoustic Unity uses the mirror to maneuver towards the future.

“This trio is one of the most thrilling groups I’ve heard on the ECM label in a long time” – Mike Gates, UKVibe 5/5

“What a superb album, gentlemen, I can’t wait for Round 2.” – Tyran Grillo (Ecmreviews.com)

“This works deserves to be recognized as the most remarkable this year!  FANTASTIC!” – Miguel Almada (jazz impromto jazz blogspot)

“It all tracks up to a great album” – Chris May (Allaboutjazz)

“Gard Nilssen’s Acoustic Unity is one of the best trios in Europe” – Phil Freeman (Stereogum, The Wire, Burning Ambulance)

“Ask me to name a killer working band that most American jazz listeners still don’t know, and there’s a good chance I’d land on Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity.” – Nate Chinen, WBGO

“This turbulent album takes the craziness of Bitches Brew and adds a punk-style attack. If three well-schooled jazz musicians were force-fed Motörhead, this would be the result.” – Kieron Tyler – The arts desk (record)

“It was thrilling stuff and it all ended just a little too soon.” – Ian Patterson – All about jazz (live)

”This album offers the trio in its prime, perfecting its loose yet deep and close interplay, but, still, sounding greater than the sum of its parts.” – Freejazzblog.org

“This is one of the best releases I’ve heard this year and even in the last 2-3 years” – Gustav Lindqvist (Free Jazz Collective 5/5 stars)

“Notice is served that these are three names to watch out for.” – John Sharpe- All about jazz (album)