Bliss Quintet (NOR)

Dramatic energetic ballads, fanfare-like horn riffs, complex rhythms and open harmonic landscapes are central themes for Bliss Quintet. Still well-kept and maintained in the band’s sound, is the focus on playful interaction, wild energetic presence, and elements of free playing, following in the footsteps of renowned nordic bands such as Atomic and Masqualero.
Following the release of their second album Glasshouse in 2023 on Jazzland Recordings, they have since been touring actively, making appearances at clubs and festivals such as Jazzwoche Burghausen, Jazzclub Ferrara, Moldejazz and Jazzahead.
The band has its origins in the jazz line at NTNU, and has played at many venues and festivals including the Nasjonal Jazzscene, Dølajazz, Canal Street and Christiania Jazzclub. In 2020, they played on the renowned talent stage Nordic Showcase during the Oslo Jazz Festival and were selected by the festival to be part of their main program in 2021.
The Bliss Quintet has a unique instrumental line-up with instruments such as a quarter-toned trumpet and acoustic fretless bass guitar. These elements play a key role in embuing „Dramaqueen“ with a unique musicality, defamiliarising without dominating the sound. Their performances allow all the musicians contribute with intricate compositions and personal touches.

“Undoubtedly, there’s a distinctive and noteworthy quality permeating throughout Glasshouse, solidifying Bliss Quintet’s position at the forefront of contemporary jazz.“ – Steven James, Jazz in Europe

– “Bliss Quintet is populated by five of Norway’s most promising jazz musicians. Their debut album confirms it in every way.” Tor Hammerø, NETTAVISEN (NO)

– “Here’s yet another impressive-sounding young Norwegian band for the future” Selwyn Harris, Jazzwise (UK)

“A good blend of melody and carefree wildness.” – Rob Adams, London Jazz News (UK)

Line Up:
Oscar Andreas Haug – trumpet
Zakarias Meyer Øverli – saxophone
Benjamín Gísli Einarsson – piano
Gard Kronborg – bass
Rino Sivathas – drums