Verneri Pohjola Bullhorn – Reviewed by TheBWShow

Edition Records are very fast establishing themselves as one of Europe’s Premier Jazz Labels with a roster of wonderful players and Verneri is no exception to this.  The trumpet player based in Helsinki, Sweden, has previously released albums on the ACT Label and Bullhorn is his first for the Edition Label.

To be honest, when I first heard the album the word “beautiful” sprung to mind and, after listening to it many times, “beautiful” sticks. To say this is a good album would be an understatement.  Verneri takes the listener on a journey from soft numbers to BIG, FULL, in-your-face tunes.  In speaking to Veneri about the album, he let slip that he was particularly influenced by film scores and this certainly comes across in several numbers.  Bullhorn, for me, is a great album; as good as any work that’s been produced by modern day masters of the trumpet, such as Ambrose Akinmusire.

In his liner note, Verneri says: “It doesn’t necessarily feel that way but you can’t keep ignoring the odometer ticking ever closer to 40. It’s a hint that we should actually start embracing adulthood …. let’s say, sometime in the near future.”   This album is exactly that.  Are we seeing a different Veneri on this album: expressing himself as a mature performer, embracing adulthood?  Absolutely!   The album is mature, cleverly written and a good listen that will keep you returning time and time again.

THE BWSHOW Rating - ¬¬¬¬ ¶

Standout Track - Nanomachines

Verneri Pohjola Bullhorn

1. Another Day
2. Girls Of Costa Rica
3. He Sleeps, I Keep Watch
4. Bullhorn
5. In La Borie
6. This One Is For You
7. Nanomachines
8. Ouroboros
9. Cold Blooded
10. The End Is Nigh

Label – Edition Records

Website – www.editionrecords.com or www.verneripohjola.com