"As with everything else that was played and heard (including, no doubt, the few shows this reviewer missed), Tampere Jazz Happening was once again in the ears, hearts and minds of everyone on hand to help complete the circle and make it all come alive. And that they did."
By JOHN EPHLAND, Published: November 15, 2013
Tampere Jazz Happening
Tampere, Finland
October 31-November 3, 2013
It all started with a whimper. Or, rather, a quiet, almost serene drum roll. You knew things were going to eventually explode, but, of course, the getting there was half the fun. The Danish drum duo Toto was working in tandem in what was to be the eventual drum suite of all sticks and no cymbals (apart from hi-hats). The main floor of the rustic, atmospheric, funky Klubi was full as were the outer layers of seats, with most fans standing, the two drummers in a kind of face-off, Tobias Kirstein and Toke Tietze evoking images of a Max Roach/Buddy Rich showdown. And with the occasional, sneaky insertion of electronics, this packed house responded to the occasional techno flourishes with smiles and not a little ass-wiggling.
These were the opening salvos to the 32nd annual Tampere Jazz Happening, presented by Copenhagen Jazz Festival and once again uniquely programmed by Artistic Director Juhamatti Kauppinen...
Read the rest of the seven-page review here: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=45839&pg=1#.UoX83-IUuZ5