The music of Gilbert Holmström is inspired by American jazz icons like Cecil Taylor, Albert Ayler and Archie Shepp. The GHQ is probably one of the most seeking, progressive and investigative groups in Sweden today. Their music is filled with joy, swing, and high spirits. The quartet performs bold interpretations of original compositions as well as modern jazz masterpieces, always with a glint in the eye and with focus on the beat. The GHQ treats the audience to music saturated with both melodic audacity and rhythmic vitality. Today’s lineup: Gilbert Holmström (tenor sax, GHQ leader). GH composes most of the music for the quartet. Over the years, he’s headed a number of jazz groups, such as Mount Everest, Isobop, The Gilbert Holmström Quartet, The Gilbert Holmström Quintet, and The Gilbert Holmström Sextet. In 1984, Isobop toured the south of Sweden with alto star Lee Konitz as featured guest. GH has also played with many famous musicians, such as Dexter Gordon, Sonny Stitt, Brian Trentham, Don Cherry, Archie Shepp, John Tchicai, and others. He’s made numerous recordings since his first LP release, in 1965. Pider Åvall (trombone, session manager). PÅ’s open and imaginative musical approach is somewhat related to the playing of Roswell Rudd, famous for his work with Archie Shepp. Not at all surprising, either, since they both come from a similar musical background: playing traditional New Orleans-style jazz. Anders Söderling (drums). AS plays with several free jazz groups, as well as in a more bebop-oriented context. He’s been a member of the celebrated Åke Johansson Trio and has a solid reputation among musicians for being a most versatile and dynamic drummer. Kjell Jansson (double bass). An exciting addition to the group, KJ currently also works with his own band, The Kjell Jansson Quartet, which is very busy on the Swedish jazz scene and has released a couple of CDs. As a member of the Åke Johansson Trio, he made extended concert tours in Sweden, backing sax player James Moody, trumpeter Chet Baker, and jazz-harmonica player Toots Thielemans. Together with Chet Baker, the trio recorded the memorable LP album Live In Sweden (Dragon 1983).