Midwest

While Norwegian jazz is often stereotyped as reflective of its geography, trumpeter Mathias Eick’s Midwest takes inspiration from a North American tour, wavering between a sense of belonging and solitude. Nestled in a stellar band that augments a piano trio backing with violin, he realizes a breathy realism throughout. Brass and bow prove to be viable partners, whether harmonizing in “Hem” or trading solos in the title track. The atmospheric minutiae of the whole offer plenty of rewards for repeat listeners through Eick’s fresh lyricism.