Jon Christensen (1943-2020) was a Norwegian jazz drummer, known for his dynamic and textural style of drumming. Born in Oslo, he became one of the most prominent drummers in the European jazz scene, and his career spanned over five decades. Christensen was a core member of the European jazz community, contributing to the distinctive sounds of the ECM record label from its early days. He was a frequent collaborator with Norwegian saxophonist Jan Garbarek and played with an array of other renowned jazz musicians, including Keith Jarrett, Terje Rypdal, and Bobo Stenson.

Christensen's body of work is characterized by a sense of fluidity and invention. Notably, he appeared on a wide range of recordings that highlighted his nuanced approach to rhythm and his ability to blend seamlessly with other musicians. His later works, such as "Gefion" with guitarist Jakob Bro, bassist Thomas Morgan, and "Under the Rainbow" with the Bobo Stenson Trio, showcase his sustained creative vitality and his continued exploration of the boundaries of jazz drumming. His ability to create atmospheric soundscapes earned him accolades and cemented his status as one of the most influential European jazz drummers in modern times.

Genres

Ecm-style Jazz

Jazz Drums

Norwegian Jazz

Related Artists

Jan Garbarek

Keith Jarrett

Palle Danielsson

Terje Rypdal

Arild Andersen

Bobo Stenson

Eberhard Weber

Susanne Sundfør

Pat Metheny

Bill Frisell

Arve Henriksen

Nils Petter Molvær

Latest Release

Gefion

Jakob Bro•

Thomas Morgan•

Jon Christensen

Album - 8 Tracks - Released February 6, 2015