My new solo album, The Kempen Concert, is now available on all digital services. It’s a live-recording of an improvised solo concert that I played in Paterskirche in Kempen, Germany on Nov 8th 2024, released by Kite Records. The vinyl will be ready by the end of February 2026.
I am sincerely grateful for the reception so far:
Stylistically, one can’t help but detect the influence of Keith Jarrett in what Berg does. His freedom, his risk taking, his ability to fill a space with just “a few notes” – but this is no mere echo. Berg’s voice is distinct – at times playful, always thoughtful, deeply lyrical. All told, “The Kempen Concert” is a compelling statement: a solo performance that reaffirms why Espen Berg is regarded as a serious pianist/composer in the improvised arena. This album captures perfectly the spellbinding beauty of an inspired performance from the pianist. // ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Mike Gates, UK Vibe
I keep asking myself – even after listening to this wonderful concert several times – which superlatives are truly appropriate here. […] This concert deserves to be ranked among the most important solo piano recordings of all time – no more, no less.
The Kempen Concert is an immersive journey in which Espen Berg leads his listeners into his boundless creative universe—never shying away from risk. It is unquestionably his finest solo album to date, a world-class statement. // ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Espen Berg once again proves that he is among the most fascinating pianists of his generation. […] Another masterpiece from an artist who is shaping the jazz piano of our time.
Some have not hesitated to compare this pianist from the Trondheim scene to Keith Jarrett. The temptation is indeed strong. Obvious, even! […] For it is truly the spirit of Jarrett that wanders over this performance. Without a doubt!
Of course, it’s quite something to bring the genius of Keith Jarrett into this context, but to me it really feels like, as a pianist in this musical landscape, Espen Berg has reached a point where he can carry that tradition forward into new territory. […] As with Jarrett, it’s almost unbelievable that what we’re hearing is freely improvised music. // ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tor Hammerø, Nettavisen
More reviews are on the way and will be shared here later on.
I was fortunate to get invited to play this concert in Kempen sometime early 2024. Paterskirche is regularly being used for concerts, and there’s a very good Steinway Model D located at the venue. The room has great acoustics, so the combination of instrument and reverb made it easy for me to fill the room with just a few notes and draw inspiration from the sound of it.
Stay tuned for news about the vinyl and more reviews, but first and foremost – don’t forget to check out the music yourself.
ESPEN BERG 