Det danske pris vindende instrumentale jazz kollektiv ALAWARI spiller på Stengade d. 19 februar!  

Koncerten er en del af Vinterajazz Festivalen

Alawari:

The Danish instrumental collective ALAWARI was founded in 2016 and quickly gained attention on the European jazz scene with their explosive live performances. That same year, they won Ung Jazz, Denmark’s national competition for young jazz musicians.

In contrast to their self-titled debut album from 2022 – a cacophonous musical reflection on revolution – their latest release marks a journey into spirituality, transformation and the totality of human experience.

‘Leviathan’ was released on November 1st on April Records and has been nominated for ‘Jazz Release of the Year’ in the Danish Music Awards Jazz 2025.

The album moves between symphonic grandeur and intimate vulnerability, with moments so fragile that even breathing can be felt. With this, the sextet wants to show that the path to the divine is through collective unity – a shared experience that transcends the individual.

From plaintive melodies on a solo trumpet, gradually followed by a dense and ominous synth, to hypnotic patterns on a closely miked saxophone and rumbling grooves in the rhythm section with fiery horn harmonies – ALAWARI’s innovative and dynamic arrangements offer something new and unexpected around every corner.

Although the ensemble consists of six members, the soundscape feels like a full orchestra or big band experience. They unite thoroughly composed, classically inspired arrangements with complexly interwoven parts, lush textures and a warm, raw and intimate production – all to create a listening experience larger than life itself.

Leviathan takes the listener on a profound journey that captures the divine and spiritual forces that flow through art. The album functions as a vessel – slowly sailing like a majestic ship or a steady train journey – on a peaceful yet powerful journey. It invites the listener to move through a landscape of sorrow and joy, pain and exaltation, silence and intensity.

Through this journey, ALAWARI wants to reveal the original truth: that the spirit precedes everything, and that the trivial background of everyday life can be transformed and repainted – if only it is carried by the right vessel.

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+ Special Guest: Leah
Catchy, unique and funky - the jazzy yacht-rock band LEAH from Oslo has quickly established itself as a key act on the young Norwegian jazz scene. The band’s sound is rooted in retro pop blended with fresh harmonies, playful grooves and room for spontaneity.

Their debut album Zzz recieved the national composer award «Blåtoneprisen» and was celebrated with two major concerts: a performance with orchestra in the University Aula, and a grand release party at Parkteatret featuring guest artists and support acts.

Since then, LEAH has performed over 50 shows in Norway serving explosive energy and dynamics. Their second album is set for release in spring 2026 and explores arpeggios, motifs, retro-inspired harmonies and new approaches to ballads, all while carrying forward the humor and joy that defined Zzz.

Leah Engevold - vocals, keytar and songwriting
Kristina Fransson - trumpet
Tevje Fjugstad Flaate - guitar
Henrik Bakka - bass
Halvor Dokke - drums

“ (...) LEAH is one of the most life-giving things I have experienced on a Norwegian stage in a long time. Here, all jazz festivals, ØYA, By:larm, Vill Vill Vest, good clubs around the country should track this band down immediately - it's guaranteed to be a great atmosphere with LEAH on the programme. It's actually a bit embarrassing to brag so much, I generally try not to be such a trumpeting hype machine, but this was dope. I felt the need to stay in the venue for half an hour just to sort out the impressions. That makes you happy”. - Audun Vinger Jazz in Norway

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Entry: 150 kr in pre-sale / 175 kr at the door!
Doors at 8pm!