Oddjob

Oddjob is a prime example of why Scandinavian musicians play such a prominent role in the latest happenings in jazz.  It’s not just about technique and virtuosity; it is unconditional concentration on a unique sound and the impact of melody.  In Scandinavia, ear training is more important than it is elsewhere. At the same time Scandinavian musicians also have an enviable openness for different styles and genres.  No wonder then that Oddjob also became involved in the recent resurgence of the jazz-rock of the 70’s; yet Oddjob’s approach sounds different.

The project came about accidentally.  Shortly after the beginning of the millennium four of Sweden’s most accomplished studio musicians and jazz exponents found themselves together as a tour band for resident soul star Eric Gadd.  Trumpeter Goran Kajfeš has worked as a sideman for such pop stars as Sting, Eagle-Eye Cherry, Janet Jackson and the Cardigans.   He has also caused a sensation with the soul-jazz band Blacknuss and his own projects which mix Afro-American jazz with electronics.  Saxophonist Per “Ruskträsk” Johansson has worked with jazz greats Roy Hargrove, Fred Wesley, Randy Brecker, and Nils Landgren.  Together with Kajfeš, he played with The Flesh Quartet, Blacknuss, and Sting.  Bassist Peter Forss has worked with Sophie Zelmani and Rebecca Törnqvist among others, while drummer Janne Robertson has worked with a number of famous Scandinavians, including Mauro Scocco, and Titiyo and Lisa Nilsson.