Label: April Records, 2025
Personnel - Torben Bjørnskov: double bass; Esben Tjalve: piano; Frederik Bülow: drums + Chris Cheek: saxophones.
Human Being Human is a Danish jazz trio led by double bassist Torben Bjørnskov, who—like on their previous two outings, Equals (2022) and Disappearance (2023)—composes all the material. The group is completed by pianist Esben Tjalve and drummer Frederik Bülow. Their latest album, Being, is further enriched by the presence of American saxophonist Chris Cheek, whose contribution broadens both the sonic and expressive scope of the music.
Inspired by human connectedness, the album opens with “Human Rights”, an involving and well-shaped post-bop statement animated by an illuminating theme and rounded out with emphatic solos from Cheek, Tjalve, and Bjørnskov. Cheek’s soprano cuts briskly through the sprightly and upbeat “Human Impact”, a piece that calls attention to both the damage humanity inflicts on the planet and the possibility of repair. Low-register piano figures align closely with the bass, forming a sure-footed tapestry that gently invites movement.
“Filla”, the only composition not written specifically for this album, is a candid saxophone–bass duet anchored by Bjørnskov’s full-bodied, woody tone. In contrast, the title track “Being” unfolds as a spacious, tender ballad whose warmth radiates evenly from all corners of the tightly knit quartet.
“Human Spirit” continues in a softly brushed ballad mode, with emotion emerging from its calm lines and poised harmonic progression. It differs markedly from “Human Nature”, where contemporary jazz intersects with a pop-oriented foundation, featuring a straight backbeat, direct phrasing, and a clear groove. Still, both pieces emphasize accessible melodic and harmonic pathways. The album closes with the floating, more subjective “Human Instinct”, marked by lyrical Nordic folk inflections and sustained by a discreet yet thoughtful percussion treatment. Its broader spiritual resonance occasionally recalls Jan Garbarek and Edward Vesala.
Operating more to the right of center than the left, Human Being Human presents a highly musical palette, further elevated by Cheek’s confident style throughout the set.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Human Rights ► 03 - Human Impact ► 07 - Human Instinct