Album Review: "Hymn" by Anders Widmark – A Soulful Jazz Journey with a Spiritual Twist
Let’s get straight to it. If you’re into jazz but also dig some deeper, reflective vibes, Anders Widmark’s Hymn is an album that might just stick with you. Released back in 2004 in Sweden (yeah, those Swedes know their music), this record blends contemporary jazz with religious undertones. It’s not your typical Sunday morning hymn book kind of thing—it’s way more layered than that.
First off, let’s talk about the track “I Dödens Bojor Kristus Låg.” Man, this one hits different. The piano work here—handled by Widmark himself—is hauntingly beautiful. There’s something raw and almost cinematic about how the notes swell and fade. You can tell he didn’t just play; he felt every single key press. This tune feels like walking through an old church at dusk, where the air is heavy with history and quiet reflection. I kept coming back to it because it’s got this bittersweet vibe that stays with you long after the last note fades out.
Then there’s “Fantasi Över 'På Dig Jag Hoppas Herre Kär'”, which is basically Widmark showing off his arranging chops. Hugo Bedinger helped out on this one too, and together they created something really special. It starts simple enough, but then layers build up slowly, adding texture and depth. By the time the piece peaks, you’re fully immersed. What makes it memorable for me is how it balances complexity without losing its soul. Too many jazz albums try too hard to sound clever, but this track keeps things grounded while still being musically rich.
The production quality deserves a shout-out too. With folks like Claes Persson mastering the tracks and Peder af Ugglas mixing them, everything sounds crisp yet warm. Like drinking coffee on a chilly morning—comforting but sharp enough to wake you up.
One thing worth mentioning is how personal this album feels. Sure, it’s technically impressive, but what makes Hymn stand out is its emotional weight. These aren’t just songs; they’re stories told through sound. And yeah, some tracks have versions I and II, which could’ve been confusing, but honestly? It works. Each version gives you a slightly new perspective, like revisiting an old memory from a different angle.
So, would I recommend Hymn? Absolutely. But don’t expect flashy solos or over-the-top performances. This is introspective stuff—music that asks you to sit down, shut up, and listen closely.
Oh, and here’s a random thought to leave you with: listening to this album made me wonder if heaven has a playlist. If it does, I’m pretty sure Hymn would be on repeat. Just saying.
Anders Widmark is a jazz musician, composer and pianist born in Uppsala, Sweden.
In the beginning of the 1990s, he was one of the first in Sweden to mix jazz with hip hop and acid jazz.
He has worked with Swedish vocalists Louise Hoffsten, Helen Sjöholm, Rebecka Törnqvist and Sara Isaksson as well as international jazz stars Bob Brookmeyer, Eddie Harris and Clark Terry.
He has a band called Anders Widmark Trio.
Did you know that the 2004 jazz album *Hymn* by Swedish pianist Anders Widmark blends religious themes with contemporary jazz? It’s not every day you find an album where tracks are inspired by traditional Swedish psalms, yet brought to life with modern arrangements and improvisation. One standout detail is how Widmark collaborated with multiple talented musicians and technicians—like photographer Louise Wohlfart and mixer Peder af Ugglas—to craft this unique project. The result? A soulful mix of faith and artistry that feels both timeless and fresh.
