The jazz project I-95 by Glib Svyrydov blends contemporary European aesthetics with acoustic intimacy and lyrical

depth. From ironic swing to introspective ballads, each track explores emotional contrasts - light and shadow, movement

and stillness, distance and connection. A journey through modern jazz shaped by personal narratives and poetic energy.

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About the Quartet

The story of this quartet began in an unusual setting — aboard a cruise ship, where the musicians first met to perform for an international audience. Although they were initially brought together by a contract, it quickly became clear that something deeper was emerging — more than just professional collaboration. A shared passion for music and a drive for growth transformed the group into a fully-fledged creative unit. Among professional musicians, it's often said that cruise ship work is more about craftsmanship than artistry. But this quartet proved otherwise. When there’s a genuine desire to create and explore new ideas, the physical setting becomes secondary — whether it’s a studio, a club stage, or the middle of the ocean. In fact, constant changes of scenery, distance from familiar surroundings, long contracts, and inevitable homesickness can actually fuel deeper reflection. These conditions allow for a different perspective on creativity — one that is more focused, personal, and honest.

 

For the members of the quartet, the ship became a kind of artistic laboratory, where music was born that reflected both inner experience and the spirit of the times. The group’s repertoire included original compositions as well as fresh arrangements of well-known jazz standards. Some of these were reimagined not only musically but lyrically too: classic lyrics were rewritten to express more contemporary and socially relevant themes. This made the music more resonant with today’s audience while still honoring the tradition. The quartet’s artistic direction emerged from the blend of each member’s individual taste. There was no hierarchy in the creative process — all ideas were welcomed and explored. Each musician contributed their own aesthetic, rhythm, harmony, and emotional tone. This collective approach gave the album its richness, diversity, and vitality. Although the group never performed in the United States, American audiences became some of their most important listeners. Each week, hundreds of new guests boarded the ship — many of them jazz lovers who truly understood the music. This constant rotation of listeners gave the band a rare opportunity to test their music in real time. The result was an ongoing dialogue with the audience, who listened deeply, responded emotionally, and gave genuine feedback. This experience became a defining part of the group’s journey, helping their music find approval and connection with a wide range of listeners. This album is the result of deep individual and collective work, but at the same time — it’s just the beginning.

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Glib Svyrydov – piano/synths

Jana Kütt – vocals
Andres Alaru – double bass

Pauls Pokratnieks – drums
feat. Toms Rudzinskis – sax

 

We hope it resonates with you, brings you inspiration and emotion. And who knows — maybe this is only the first step on a long road ahead.