One of the most pleasant surprises on the young-generation Finnish jazz, Mopo has just returned from Ireland’s famed 12 Points, which took place 13-16 February. Being the opening act of such a special festival is not easy, but this sparky Finnish trio got several mentions as one of the absolute highlights of the whole event.

The praiseworthy genre-defying group Oddarrang as well as Verneri Pohjola Quartet, led by the young yet established trumpeter Verneri Pohjola gained success at London Jazz Festival last November. They will now continue their expedition on the British Isles: the Gateshead International Jazz Festival (5-7 April, Newcastle) has invited both groups to play their Jazz from The North series.

Other Finnish jazz groups playing the UK include, e.g. saxophonist Pekka Pylkkänen’s half-British ensemble Pekka Pylkkänen Hi-Fi Quintuplet, whose tour takes place in April.

A British label for quality jazz, Edition Records has signed Oddarrang and Alexi Tuomarila Trio. The new album by Alexi Tuomarila Trio will be released in April, and Oddarrang is scheduled to be out in September 2013. Read more here. 

12 Points
The Gateshead International Jazz Festival 2013
Edition Records