Yanna Pelser and Jordi Carrasco Hjelm play music that is beautiful, intriguing and funky. They draw influences from a variety of musical styles and move instantly between the hilarious and the heartfelt. The audience is invited to become part of the creative process as the music is created entirely in the moment. Sounds of strings and voices become one and the musical rollercoaster ride begins.
I think the reason why improvising with Yanna always feels so effortless and a bit magical, is that although we grew up apart (Yanna in Delft, me in Stockholm) we have a lot of similarities in our musical backgrounds. We both grew up playing classical music as well as always playing in different bands and learning folk music by ear. While Yanna played flamenco and brazilian music, I played Swedish Folk music. Yanna is one of the most real musicians I ever met. Combining her viola playing with her voice, she is able to create something truly unique. Both when interpreting a score, improvising or composing Yanna always finds new sounds to paint with.
Improvising with Jordi feels like freedom to me. Nothing is holding this beast on the double bass back from expressing his musicality. This musicality comes from his childhood in Sweden, where he started as a soprano in the local school choir, continued by his education in classical music. Having his roots in Swedish folk music, he can contribute a folky and groovy vibe to the duo. We can literally move from a Shostakovich-like phrase into a folk mood in a split second. And the fun part is, is that nor the audience, nor ourselves know how and when these changes will happen.
