Biography

Introducing Laurell & Sun Dog, the latest musical venture of renowned composers and multi-instrumentalists, Valtteri Laurell Pöyhönen and Eeti Nieminen. Their debut album Mingling with... was released in October 2023.

The music of Laurell & Sun Dog reflects the diverse musical tastes of its creators. While both are recognized figures in the jazz scene, their music is a postmodern concoction of afrobeat, Weather Report, hiphop, and influences from Ornette Coleman, all filtered through a punk and DIY ethos. This dynamic duo has crafted their music from spontaneous jam sessions, resulting in a unique blend of genres and styles.

All tracks on the Mingling with... album are self-produced and mixed by the artists. The album, a culmination of sessions at various rehearsal spaces, home studios, and Villa Vikan's residency, features a trio of wind instruments: Mikko Innanen on saxophones, Janne Toivonen on trumpet, and Heikki Tuhkanen on trombone. Live performances will also feature Eero Tikkanen on bass.

Valtteri Laurell Pöyhönen, born in 1978, is a Helsinki-native composer, jazz musician, and music producer. He's celebrated for his innovative rhythm music concepts and artistic storytelling. Pöyhönen's primary bands include the 2004-founded Dalindèo and the 17-member Ricky-Tick Big Band established in 2010. He composes, arranges, and produces all tracks for both bands.

Drummer Eeti Nieminen, born in 1988, is a versatile musician known for his work with the successful jazz trio Mopo and the Jimi Tenor band. Nieminen, also a DJ under the moniker Sun Dog, has collaborated with numerous artists and is currently building a studio while contemplating new productions.

Tracklist

1. Lester the Jester
2. Seesaw
3. Carnivale
4. Morning Dew
5. Point Nemo
6. Until We Meet Again
7. Hazelnuts
8. Dugong Dreams
9. Lamento Arabesque
10. Alien Girlfriends
11. Magic Dark