Atomic has held a position at the forefront of Scandinavian and European jazz for nearly 20 years, earning widespread acclaim for creating a completely unique and identifiable sound that seamlessly merges the American and European avant-jazz influences. The compositions, by pianist Håvard Wiik and reedist Fredrik Ljungkvist, are typical Atomic: thoughtfully constructed melodies alternate with explosive passages by way of fast, unexpected changes.
Recently they released Pet Variations, their first album with renditions of compositions by others, including Edgard Varèse, Olivier Messiaen, Steve Lacy, Jimmy Giuffre, Jan Garbarek and Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys.
‘Accomplished, inventive, superb in live performance. No praise too high for the band. Pet Variations has in abundance what so much contemporary jazz lacks – power, passion, originality and genuine musical excitement’ (Jazzwise).
Fredrik Ljungkvist tenor saxophone/clarinet, Magnus Broo trumpet, Håvard Wiik piano, Ingebrigt Håker Flaten bass, Hans Hulbækmo drums