Review: Finnish duo Lampen, consisting of guitarist Kalle Kalima and percussionist/sampler Tatu Ronkko, returns with their second album Halogen, out on We Jazz Records. Straddling the line between Helsinki and Berlin, their sound evokes the meditative expansiveness of acts like Earth and The Necks, yet firmly occupies its own unique territory. Lampen's music is a deep exploration of contemporary jazz, unconstrained by genre, unfolding slowly with a subtle yet undeniable intensity. The duo's compositions build gradually, revealing their power in unexpected, logical eruptions of sound. Their new track, 'Soleil du Sud 2', hints at what the full album offersione of this year's standout releases in Eurojazz. Kalima's guitar work often draws comparisons to Bill Frisell, though his approach can be bolder and more audacious at times, as demonstrated on the album's title track. Yet, moments like 'Buttons' bring Kalima back into more introspective, Frisell-like territory. With Halogen, Lampen continues to expand their sonic palette, blending jazz with elements of electronica and blues-rock. Their organic, free-flowing approach ensures a deeply impactful listening experience.
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