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Mika Pohjola - piano

Experience the essence of New England through the keys of "The Sound of New England, Vol 1," marking a remarkable return for pianist and composer Mika Pohjola after over a decade. Recorded in a two-day studio session in July 2022, this sixteen-track masterpiece is a sonic odyssey capturing Pohjola's impressions of the captivating New England region, with a special focus on the vibrant pulse of Boston.

Immerse yourself in Pohjola's musical landscape, where jazz and contemporary American classical styles intertwine, echoing his formative years at Berklee College of Music in the 1990s. The album commences with a heartfelt homage to Pohjola's initial encounter with Boston in May 1992, vividly recalling a sweltering day of unprecedented heat that contrasted sharply with his Scandinavian upbringing's moderate climate.

Journey through the tapestry of New England's diversity, from the natural serenity evoked in "Maine Birds" to the urban rhythms of "One Twenty Eight," "Burlington Blues," and the playfully accented "Pahk Street." Reflecting on everyday nuances, tracks like "No Smoking, Please!" pay homage to the distinct announcements of the Red Line subway, while politically astute pieces like "Senator from Connecticut" and "New Hampshire Primaries" offer multifaceted insights shaped by Pohjola's two-decade residency in the United States.

Drawing from his experiences as a frequent lecturer at his alma mater and his extensive musical journey spanning New York City to Stockholm, Pohjola infuses each note with a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences. The album culminates with the evocative and poignant "September Minuet," a reflective ode to the changing seasons and the passage of time.

Pohjola's mastery effortlessly merges jazz and classical nuances, mirroring the vibrant musical ethos prevalent in Boston's academic circles. "The Sound of New England, Vol 1" beckons listeners on an immersive, imaginary voyage through New England's natural splendor and the enriching academic tapestry of the bustling Boston landscape. Get ready to embark on a soul-stirring musical journey that transcends time and place.