Helsinki-based drummer Joonas Leppänen introduces Alder Ego, his quartet formation bringing together four prominent talents from the thriving Finnish jazz scene. Here, Leppänen is joined by trumpeter Tomi Nikku (from Bowman Trio), saxophonist Jarno Tikka, and bassist Teemu Åkerblom.

Together, they create forward-thinking jazz music of the present: melodic, flowing, and brimming with delightful surprises. The music progresses organically, carrying multiple layers of exploration. Leppänen's musical vision bears cubist undertones, and the Alder Ego tracks take unexpected twists while maintaining their melodious clarity throughout. Each member showcases their soloistic prowess, with Tikka and Nikku's sax and trumpet playing shining brilliantly. Nevertheless, this represents small group jazz at its finest: lean yet richly textured, melodious yet daring, and ultimately founded on teamwork with highly gratifying outcomes indeed.

"Flight," released digitally on July 25, offers the first taste of Alder Ego's album "II," set to be released by We Jazz Records on October 26 in black and white vinyl editions (including a printed inner sleeve with liner notes and full download), CD, and digitally.