Plunge

Biography

Plunge is a Swedish jazz trio formed in Malmö in 2001, known for their collective improvisation and acoustic music rooted in the Scandinavian jazz tradition. The group consists of saxophonist Andreas Andersson, double bassist Mattias Hjorth, and drummer Peter Nilsson. Their music is characterized by patient, spontaneous improvisation, often blending structured compositions with free-form exploration, resulting in a sound that is both introspective and dynamic. Over the years, Plunge has developed a reputation for their live performances and recordings, which highlight their deep musical rapport and commitment to innovation within the jazz idiom.

The trio's career has been marked by a series of critically acclaimed albums and collaborations, most notably with the renowned Swedish pianist Bobo Stenson. Their partnership with Stenson began in 2002 and has produced several recordings and tours, enriching both the trio's sound and their standing in the European jazz scene. Plunge has toured extensively throughout Sweden and Europe, appearing at major festivals and venues, and their work has been featured on national and international radio broadcasts. Their legacy lies in their contribution to the evolution of contemporary Scandinavian jazz, particularly through their emphasis on collective improvisation and their openness to collaboration.

Fun Facts

  • Plunge has performed live improvisations in front of audiences, capturing the spontaneous energy of their music on recordings such as 'Refreshingly Addictive'.
  • The trio's collaboration with Bobo Stenson began after a successful series of concerts in Sweden, leading to a long-term musical partnership.
  • Plunge's music has been featured on national and European radio broadcasts, highlighting their impact on the jazz community.
  • Their recordings often blend composed music with free improvisation, creating a unique and evolving sound.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

  • Bobo Stenson - Collaborative mentor and frequent musical partner (['Plunge with Bobo Stenson', 'Origo']) [2002–present]

Key Collaborators

  • Andreas Andersson - Saxophonist and founding member (['Plunge', 'Refreshingly Addictive', 'Plunge with Bobo Stenson']) [2001–present]
  • Mattias Hjorth - Double bassist and founding member (['Plunge', 'Refreshingly Addictive', 'Plunge with Bobo Stenson']) [2001–present]
  • Peter Nilsson - Drummer and founding member (['Plunge', 'Refreshingly Addictive', 'Plunge with Bobo Stenson']) [2001–present]
  • Bobo Stenson - Pianist and frequent collaborator (['Plunge with Bobo Stenson', 'Origo']) [2002–present]

Discography

Top Tracks

  1. Yebba's Heartbreak (I Do) (Yebba's Heartbreak (I Do))
  2. Hey Ya! (Hey Ya!)
  3. Stay (Stay)
  4. Stolen Dance (Stolen Dance)
  5. Crazy (Crazy)
  6. Just One Dance (Just One Dance)
  7. Milkshake (Milkshake)
  8. Chicago Freestyle (Chicago Freestyle)
  9. Flower (Flower)
  10. Forever (Forever)

References

  1. allaboutjazz.com
  2. orendarecords.com

Heard on WWOZ

Plunge has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.

DateTimeTitleShowSpotify
Nov 17, 202502:03Beyond the Nightfrom In for the OutThe Dean's Listw/ Dean Ellis