ONL

The ensemble originated in 2006 through saxophonist Stig Olson (b. 1936, Kristinehamn, Sweden), trombonist Paul Nieman (b. 19 June 1950, London, England) and keyboardist Steve Lodder (b. 10 April 1951, St. Helier, Jersey, Channel Islands). Their output presents an intriguing variety of improvised music labeled chamber jazz, a description that underscores the restrained and occasionally austere ideas shaped by classical principles. Improvisation remains central, yet the musicians anchor their pieces in a subtly balanced score that allows unrestricted scope for both personal and group expression. The core trio operates in duos or threesomes while frequently appearing as a quintet, regularly augmented by bassists Andy Hamill and Davide Mantovani together with drummer Simon Pearson.

Separately, Olson has worked alongside Keith Hale. Nieman’s résumé includes the London Jazz Composers Orchestra, Paul Rutherford, Mike Westbrook and Mônica Vasconcelos. Lodder has collaborated with George Russell, Vasconcelos and Andy Sheppard.