Krokofant

6 Krokofant

Over a longer period, Krokofant has included organist Ståle Storløkken and bassist Ingebrigt Håker Flaten. With two albums, numerous concerts, and raving reviews featuring this lineup, this constellation has come to a close—for now. Krokofant is back as a trio, marked by a new album featuring brand-new music.

The trio’s resurrection has been a refreshing change for the band, reigniting their joy in intense improvisational interplay and the fun of creating songs together again. While the quintet allowed Hasslan’s prog-rock compositions to shine, the trio focuses more on collective collaboration, sculpting the music together rather than adhering to the more rigid song structures of the quintet.

Krokofant’s sound remains deeply rooted in the 70s, with subtle nods to King Crimson and Soft Machine, alongside a strong John Coltrane influence brought by Jørgen. Though these elements aren’t uncommon in the Norwegian jazz/rock scene, Krokofant’s sound remains distinct, solidifying their role as one of the pioneers of the country’s progressive jazz movement.

From the opening track, “Harry Davidson,” with its chugging riff and catchy melody, to the jazzy, chord-based “Triple Dad,” and the atmospheric soundscapes of “The Ballade,” this album promises to resonate with rock fans, free jazz enthusiasts, and jazz-rock nostalgics alike.