“A collection of conversations shared between two friends from different generations, connected by the language of music.”

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Despite 50 years of age difference, Kim and Alex grew a bond through their common appreciation and attitude towards music, improvising and the jazz tradition. On regular visits to Kim’s house in Red Beach, the two would listen to records, discuss music, philosophise on spirituality and play together. These visits first began 10 years ago and formed a lasting friendship, continuing during Alex’s returns back to New Zealand after he moved to Europe. This album is so to say a ‘snapshot’ of the musical conversations recorded in Kim’s home during summer 2023, of moments the two felt free to listen, connect and create.

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Kim Paterson (1941) is one of New Zealand’s last great jazz legends, of his generation. Active since the 60’s, Kim’s experience, expression and authenticity in the jazz-tradition is a rare encounter these days. In musical comparison, Kim is perhaps the New Zealand Kenny Wheeler or Tom Harrell, carrying depth and flow to his playing as a true master. Working with many notable Australasian jazz figures, such as Bernie McGann, Mike Nock, John Pochee, Kim also lived in the US briefly, and was invited to play along-side Don Cherry, among others.

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Alex Ventling (1994) is a Swiss/New Zealand pianist, composer, teacher, film-maker and visuals-creator, based in Trondheim, Norway. Alex has established his personal sound as an active contemporary pianist through his sophisticated, yet organic compositions and playing style. His attention to detail and tasteful decisions continue to nourish a sensitive expression through the instrument.

Alex leads his own projects (Alex Ventling & Phelan Burgoyne, KOHERU, Alex Ventling Wavemakers and Alex Ventling & Kim Paterson duo) and is involved in various Norwegian and European projects, performing internationally. He teaches privately, works as a concert arranger, and film-maker / visuals creator for his own and others’ projects. 

 

After attending the New York Film Academy (NYC) he received scholarship for Berklee College of Music, however began studying at the Jazzcampus Basel, Switzerland. After completing his Masters in Music Pedagogy, Alex began the European Jazz Masters, an international performance degree across European conservatories (Rhythmic Music Conservatory, Jazz Institute Berlin, NTNU Jazzlinja Trondheim). 

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​Alex Ventling - Fender Rhodes

Kim Patterson - Flugelhorn and Trumpet

 

​Recorded at Kim Paterson’s home in Red Beach, New Zealand, January 2023
Mixed and mastered by Eliyah Reichen
Cover artwork by Mareea Paterson

Photograph by Phelan Burgoyne

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TH017