STHLM Svaga

STHLM svaga plays jazz and free jazz music quietly. They work with the limitations of precipices. Sounds emerge from the precipice of nothing and sit on the edge of existing. Here in this precarious state, a microcosm of detail, expression and effort are magnified. There is an endless exploration in the liminal space of becoming, sounding and decay.

STHLM svaga is Linda Oláh (vocals), Niklas Barnö (trumpet), Gustav Rådström (alto sax), Johan Jutterström (tenor sax), Rasmus Borg (piano), Elsa Bergman (double bass), Andreas Hiroui Larsson (drums).

STHLM svaga was founded by saxophonist and composer Johan Jutterström. Jutterström has studied in Sweden, Paris (CNSMDP) and Norway and has an artistic PhD in music from the Norwegian Artistic Research Programme. He has toured internationally with his group STHLM svaga. With most members being based in Stockholm (except for Paris-based vocalist Linda Oláh), STHLM svaga have previously collaborated with Carla Bley whom they commissioned the piece Bells and whistles from. The piece was released on Found You Recordings in February 2020, and the LP included liner notes by Steve Swallow who wrote: “The psychological effect of STHLM svaga’s music is a delight: first there’s disorientation, but then there’s reorientation, as you hear that there is, paradoxically, great power in reticence.“ It got raving reviews in Scandinavian press, and the release concert received a solid 5/5 review from Sweden's biggest newspaper Dagens Nyheter.

For their new recording ’Plays Carter, Plays Mitchell, Plays Shepp’, they collaborated with jazz icons Archie Shepp, Ron Carter and Roscoe Mitchell who they commissioned Die Rechnung - Chrystal Stairs - Blues - U-Jama, Desert lament and Never Sound More! from respectively. Ron Carter joined the ensemble during the recording of Desert Lament for artistic guidance.