With "Seeing", Tord Gustavsen opens a new, complex chapter in his series of celebrated trio recordings, which he began in 2003 with the now classic album "Changing Places". The new recording with its compact, concentrated song forms "reflects my personal development, I am getting older and concentrating more and more on the essentials in life and in music", says the Norwegian pianist. With five original compositions, two chorales by Johann Sebastian Bach, a traditional Norwegian hymn and the 19th century English hymn "Nearer My God, To Thee", Tord, together with his long-time companion Jarle Vespestad on drums and Steinar Raknes on double bass, delves deep into his unmistakable blend of jazz, blues, gospel, Scandinavian folk and church music. While the group's interplay "appreciates the melodies", as Tord puts it, draws strength from restraint and patiently guides the music towards its climaxes patiently builds up to its climaxes, Gustavsen shapes the masterful ensemble with his fine touch and his very special subtle gospel glow.