But rather than induce pathos, it lends a pensive solemnity to this spellbinding music. The band’s second album, ‘Abigail’ (the first was Desertion, 2008), portrays a journey through nature, lovingly crafted and driven by a group of outstanding musicians. Appropriately for a Norwegian production, the arrangements provide expansive breathing space and once entranced, you are transported to an ethereal world,
which releases your mind from the humdrum and the hackneyed.
"… the strength of Aadal's group is its hybrid between the aesthetic pioneered by saxophonist Jan Garbarek and the exploration of American roots music examined by a guitarist like Bill Frisell.» - Jakob Baekgaard, All About Jazz
«He (Michael Aadal) is a poet and beauty seeking that draws inspiration from a variety of sources - be it melodious jazz, americana, mixed with a little pop and country…. Michael Aadal Group is an unusually homogenous and coherent band. Nevertheless, it is inevitable to pay special attention to the sincerity of the way Aadal plays and the power of Kassen’s saxophone. The kingdom has a new great saxophone voice.» - Tor Hammerø, Jazznytt.