Riitta Paakki Quartet – MalmiJazz

Distinctive and fresh compositions, and a swing that draws on the very roots of jazz.

The Riitta Paakki Quartet, founded in 2013, is an ensemble that performs music composed by Riitta Paakki, a pianist who is among the most distinguished in her field. The quartet’s sound brings together the clear playing style of Paakki from Malmi, Manuel Dunkel’s powerful and nuanced sound, and the effervescent rhythm section formed by Antti Lötjönen and Joonas Riippa. Their playing radiates the joy of music, which is conveyed to the hearts of the audience as well. Paakki’s more up-tempo compositions pay a fitting tribute to the bebop of decades past, while her calmer pieces paint quintessentially Finnish, melancholic landscapes. The music exudes a mature perspective and a positive outlook.

The band’s first album is a live recording, Live at Koko Jazz Club (2018). Piste, released in 2020, was nominated for an Emma Award for Jazz Album of the Year. Väri from 2023 was also well received.

The band is currently working on a new release, and the concert features some new material as well!

Manuel Dunkel – saxophone
Riitta Paakki – piano
Antti Lötjönen – bass
Joonas Riippa – drums

Duration: 1 h 15 min