Esbjörn Svensson was a renowned Swedish jazz pianist and composer, born on April 16, 1964, in Västerås, Sweden. He was best known as the leader and pianist of the Esbjörn Svensson Trio, also known as E.S.T., a group that significantly impacted the international jazz scene with their unique blend of classical, rock, and electronica influences within the traditional jazz format. Svensson's innovative style often involved the use of electronics and atmospheric soundscapes, which helped in modernizing jazz and making it more accessible to a younger audience.

Tragically, Svensson’s life and career were cut short on June 14, 2008, when he died in a scuba diving accident. Despite this, his influence continues, and his music still resonates with fans old and new. Some of his posthumous releases include "HOME.S.," a collection highlighting his profound connection to the piano in more intimate settings, and "E.S.T. Symphony," which showcases Svensson’s compositions orchestrated for classical ensembles, further exemplifying his versatility. Works like "Close" remain evidence of his introspective and deeply resonant style, whereas "Swedish Folk Modern" reflects his capacity to reinterpret traditional music through the lens of contemporary jazz. "Layers of Light," among his other releases, maintains the trio's reputation for creating texturally rich and innovative jazz pieces, solidifying Svensson's legacy as a transformative figure in jazz history.