Alex Zethson shares new single “Terrella”

Swedish composer and keyboardist Alex Zethson has been a quiet yet prolific figure in the world of modern music for over a decade. Based in Stockholm, his career began after graduating from the Royal College of Music in 2009, when he first caught the public’s attention as a member of the free-jazz outfit Je Suis!

Since then, his musical adventure has involved an expansive and diverse range of projects, from leading his own ensembles like Vathres and the Alex Zethson Ensemble to collaborating with influential acts such as Fire! Orchestra and Goran Kajfes Tropiques. Alex’s extensive catalogue of work includes over 45 albums, an astonishing output that nods to his versatility and engagement with the avant-garde and experimental music scenes.

He’s contributed to a wide variety of genres and settings, from composing for the Trondheim Jazz Orchestra to arranging strings for ambitious opera projects like The Death of Kalypso. His ability to flow between different musical sphere from jazz, classical, experimental and beyond has seen him earn a stellar reputation as a truly innovative artist.

Over the last couple of years, he’s been sharing his solo sonic output with the world under his own name. The latest example of his highly original sound comes with his new single titled “Terrella,” a solo piano piece recorded at Piano Piano Studios and mixed by Joel Danell. Captured on analogue tape, “Terrella” serves up a striking showcase of Alex Zethson’s ability to create profound emotional magnetism through minimalist means by performing the composition on a felted piano to add a warm, muted tone and intimate quality.

Opened by a gentle flutter of hushed piano notes, the piece delicately balances intricate layers of contrasting rhythms with the bass parts and top end leads tumbling into a stunning slice of modern instrumental music. Taking cues from pianist–composers like Emahoy TseguéMaryam Guébrou and Abdullah Ibrahim, Alex Zethson lays down an enchanting sound that reveals his writing talent and incredible performance flair.

At once elegant and technical, “Terrella” offers a soothing listening experience that unveils more and more with each listen. As Alex Zethson shares more of his extraordinary musical vision with the world while staking his claim as a truly impactful creative in the Swedish music scene and beyond, he’s set to continue his status as a cherished composer and instrumentalist for years to come.

Listen to Terrella below

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