Biography

We Jazz released the new album Eir by Los Angeles -based pianist-composer Anni Kiviniemi in January 2024.

Anni Kiviniemi Trio made its debut with the album Eir (We Jazz, 2024). Named after Anni Kiviniemi's daughter, this intimate debut album consists of eight original compositions. The explorative, lyrical, and simultaneously catchy album reaches beyond traditional piano trio jazz, incorporating influences from classical music, Norwegian folk music, and North African music traditions. Kiviniemi's compositions have a personal touch, and the trio, consisting of Kiviniemi, bassist Eero Tikkanen, and Norwegian drummer Hans Hulbækmo, interpret the music as a tight unit, constantly exploring new directions in the songs.

Kiviniemi mentions that she directs her music, and life in general, towards the new and unknown. "In the end, I give the band the freedom to interpret my compositions in their own way," she adds. "It's great when, even as a band leader, I can be surprised by the end result. I would say that about 95% of what you hear on the album is improvised, whereas live, the percentage is probably closer to 99%."

Anni Kiviniemi Trio performed in a sold-out concert at the We Jazz festival in December 2023, and the album has garnered significant international interest. British star pianist Jamie Cullum praised the unique approach of Kiviniemi's music in his program. The Monolith Cocktail website lauded the trio's ensemble playing as "telepathic."

Tracklist

1. Tiu Dropar
2. Gwendolyn
3. Judy
4. Arguably
5. Atoms
6. Mére
7. Mengi
8. Choral