Kristjan Randalu - Absence

Estonian pianist Kristjan Randalu makes his ECM debut with a striking album of his own rigorous-yet-lyrical music, sensitively played by a trio formed especially for this recording, with US guitarist Ben Monder and Finnish drummer Markku Ounaskari.

As an improviser of prodigious technique, once described by Herbie Hancock as a dazzling piano player, Randalu's affinities are with the jazz musicians, but the forms and dynamics of his pieces also reflect a discerning sense of structure, and he has cited Estonian composers Erkki-Sven T��r and T�nu K�rvits - both with albums of their music on ECM New Series - amongst his mentors.

'Absence' was recorded at Studios La Buissonne in the south of France in July 2017 and produced by Manfred Eicher.

Personnel: Kristjan Randalu (piano), Ben Monder (electric guitar), Markku Ounaskari (drums)