A Moment of Now

Though there are many beautiful singing voices in jazz today, Viktoria Tolstoy is one of a kind; she makes happiness sound fragile and threatened, and bitterness sweet and enchanting. She has framed and perfected this art on a conceptual level since becoming an ACT artist in 2003, whether concentrating on material from Esbjörn Svensson whose e.s.t. began to some extent as her accompanying trio or, most recently, on Herbie Hancock, classical originals, Swedish standards or repertoire from Russia, the home of her ancestors. Her latest album "A Moment Of Now" is her most frank recording yet for one simple reason: 'Jacob [Karlzon] and I are the concept this time,' says Viktoria. Indeed it is an intimate album by the duo that focuses on their musical partnership. Karlzon has been Tolstoy's trusted companion on her band projects for almost 15 years now. Their style depends on melodies like a fish depends on water, and 14 of the best are brought together on 'A Moment Of Now'. From Fauré to Stevie Wonder, Genesis and Phil Collins, Joe Zawinul to Alanis Morrissette. The ease with which Viktoria Tolstoy and Jacob Karlzon can change the fundamental character of songs that otherwise seem to be set in stone is quite spectacular.

1. I Can Let Go Now 4:45
2. Deep River 4:58
3. Red Rain 5:05
4. A Moment of Now 4:14
5. Against All Odds 4:26
6. Hand in My Pocket 3:37
7. Taking It All Too Hard 2:48
8. Lessons in Love 5:34
9. Shadow and Light 5:30
10. Satisfied 4:44
11. I Concentrate On You 5:37
12. Scent of Snow 4:24
13. Send One Your Love 4:34
14. Northern Star 3:45