
LIVE Jonah Parzen-Johnson (US) solo
Torstaina 20.3.2025 Klo 19.
vapaa pääsy / free entrance
Jonah Parzen-Johnson makes music for baritone saxophone that challenges listeners with experimental textures & forms while embracing them with warm approachable melodies. A Chicago native and longtime Brooklyn resident, Jonah has performed solo in more than a dozen countries across four continents. You might find him at Jazz festivals in Berlin, Helsinki & Seattle, concert halls in Istanbul & Bruges, rock clubs in Rotterdam, Montreal & Rome, or Jazz clubs in New York & Chicago. His solo performances are a deeply intimate experience, as he endeavors to share who he is, how he sees our world, and the temporary moments of community that we can all embrace together. Jonah released his solo album, You’re Never Really Alone, on We Jazz Records in March 2024. Across eight tracks, he explores the technical limits of his baritone saxophone without ever making the listener feel like he has something to prove. You will find circular breathing, multiphonics, and explosive levels of sound, but more importantly, you will enjoy every moment of musical storytelling and compositional skill. This music is made for repeat listening.
“Autechre-esque pings, burbles and boings swirl together in the backs as Parzen-Johnson takes deep, chest rattling sax solos that scale the same ecstatic heights as Mats Gustafson but in a much more disciplined and mantra-like manner.” – The Wire Magazine
“Parzen-Johnson’s vaguely alien compositions split the difference between the organic and the synthetic with a far-reaching, expressive sound that carries an indefinable beauty.” – LA Times
”Parzen-Johnson is more interested in memory, as a wisp and a venue for solidarity with oneself. It works.” – The New York Times
“A rare specialist in that most challenging of disciplines, the solo recital.” – London Jazz News“With every melodious note, circular breath and heavy drone, Parzen-Johnson delivers a work of intense beauty.” – NYC Jazz Record
“A meditative invocation of self-realization.” – Jazziz Magazine
“A rare specialist in that most challenging of disciplines, the solo recital.” – London Jazz News
Bar Kuka is a living room for friends of good music, quality drinks and various aspects of art and popular culture. It is located in historical premises in the heart of Turku.
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