Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of composer/arranger/instrumentalist Martin Sjöstedt & Stockholm Jazz Orchestra, for the release of a major big band project of original and interpreted compositions.

The Stockholm Jazz Orchestra began in 1984 as a rehearsal big band. In 1985, the band had Bob Florence as a guest, and he suggested changing the name since it had become a professional big band. In 1986, Bob Brookmeyer joined the band as a guest, which led to the creation of their first album. Other notable guests over the years have included Bob Mintzer, The Yellowjackets, Maria Schneider, Gary Smulyan, and Dick Oatts. Since 2011, the band has primarily featured music composed by its members and, most recently, has included the exceptionally talented Martin Sjöstedt. This music showcases the many soloists within the band. In 2024, the band will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a Swedish tour and possibly more performances.

With their latest project, Horizon, Martin Sjöstedt delves even deeper into the vision of creating freedom for the band's members, much like a piano trio or quartet, but all within the framework that personifies a big band. Martin explains: "One of the most remarkable comments I received following a concert with the Stockholm Jazz Orchestra during our South Africa tour in 2017 was from a young female music student. She was genuinely fascinated by how the big band could perform the music as if it were a quartet. In retrospect, I now realize that all the music I compose for larger ensembles aims to provide a sense of personal involvement for everyone and allows space for each individual's unique personality."

Horizon contains nine tracks, where all the songs or arrangements are dedicated and specially written for a soloist and a member of the band.

“It's a significant challenge but also a privilege to write for some of the members I've not only toured with for almost 20 years but also consider close friends. I aim to create a musical framework where the soloist feels completely liberated while also allowing myself to communicate and challenge through the large ensemble.”

Concerning his new partnership with Ubuntu Music, Martin explains: "It's a real honour to join the Ubuntu Music family and I'm delighted to be a part of a roster of such amazing talent. Contemporary big band music is alive and kicking and I'm thrilled to share the Stockholm Jazz Orchestra's collective vision with this new album, and to turn as many people as possible on to this exciting genre of music".

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “I was first introduced to Martin Sjöstedt and his Stockholm Jazz Orchestra project through our mutual friend, Claire Martin, and the rest is now history. Martin is an exceedingly talented individual who is meticulous in his craft as a professional composer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist. ‘Horizon’ is a celebration of the big band jazz art form, with the personalities of the individual musicians allowed to shine through. We are most grateful to welcome Martin and this outstanding project into the Ubuntu Music Family.”

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BIOGRAPHY

The Stockholm Jazz Orchestra began in 1984 as a rehearsal big band. In 1985, the band had Bob Florence as a guest, and he suggested changing the name since it had become a professional big band.

In 1986, Bob Brookmeyer joined the band as a guest, which led to the creation of the album "Dreams," featuring Bob's compositions. Meeting Bob had a significant impact on the band's sound and style.

Through Bob, the band connected with Jim McNeely and recorded two albums of his music while embarking on several tours. Jim's compositions perfectly suited the band, offering plenty of solo opportunities and intricate ensemble playing.

Other notable guests over the years included Bob Mintzer, The Yellowjackets, Maria Schneider, Gary Smulyan, and Dick Oatts. With Gary and Dick, the band toured with the music of Thad Jones from 2003 to 2005 and recently in 2023, celebrating Thad's 100th birthday. Their musical spirit and artistry were incredibly inspiring.

In addition to performing in Sweden, the band has undertaken numerous worldwide tours, including visits to the US, Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico, South Africa, the UK, Switzerland, Spain, Finland, Norway, and Denmark. They've played at renowned venues and festivals such as Ronnie Scott's, Village Vanguard, Pori Jazz Festival, and the Guanajato Cultural Festival.

In the summer of 2015, the band embarked on its second tour of South Africa. They performed at notable venues including "The Orbit" in Johannesburg, "The NYJF" in Grahamstown, and the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town. These concerts were met with sold-out crowds and enthusiastic audiences, making the performances truly exhilarating. Additionally, the SJO took the opportunity to visit the township of Delft, where they collaborated with a youth big band, engaging in meaningful musical outreach.

Since 2011, the band has primarily featured music composed by its members, including pianist Göran Strandberg, drummer Jukkis Uotila, and most recently, the exceptionally talented Martin Sjöstedt. This music showcases the many soloists within the band.

In 2024, the band will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a Swedish tour and possibly more performances.