NILS PETTER MOLVAER V.S. ERIK TRUFFAZ

This is not a battle. It’s merely a choice, although it doesn’t even have to be that. Music is not a competitive sport - the only competition that a musician has is the one with himself. Music is all about collaboration, joining forces and heading towards a common goal. Then, why did I put the “V.S.” between the two great musicians? Well, I listened to these fantastic performances recently, but when I wanted to write this week’s jazz article I couldn’t decide which one to recommend to the readers. So I thought I’ll leave that choice for you to make it. Like I said, it doesn’t have to be a choice. you can listen to both concerts and then pick your favorite. I couldn’t pick mine.

Both Molvaer and Truffaz are top-class trumpeters, composers and innovators. Both of them are huge Miles Davis fans and his influence is more than obvious in their playing and in their music. Both of them use complex and odd rhythms and metrics and both of them (including the fellow musicians) use a variety of pedals and sound effects. Nils Petter Molvaer has some slightly more sophisticated arrangements and a more refined general concept, but Erik Truffaz, on the other hand, has a more organic sound and is more emotional. But these are finesses we are talking about - they both posses the highest skills and creative potential worthy of a true jazz musician. Give both of them a chance. Maybe you’ll have enough pros and cons to decide which one you like better. I couldn't!