Nine Composers, One Band, One Bold Jazz Statement

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5TH STUDIO ALBUM AND 3RD VINYL by

Vilnius JJAZZ ENSEMBLE

 

 

This is Odd Numbers—a groundbreaking album where nine members of Vilnius JJAZZ Ensemble came together to create, support, and push each other toward something greater.

 

Encouraged by bandleader Jievaras Jasinskis, these musicians stepped beyond their comfort zones—exploring, experimenting, and daring to find their own voices. The result? A unified album that’s as rich in individuality as it is in collaboration. Each piece carries a unique perspective, yet together, they form a seamless, deeply connected musical journey.

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How did we end up here?

Story behind Odd Numbers

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“I never imagined it would grow into this,” says Jievaras. “A few albums ago, I asked if anyone would like to try writing something for a big band. I sincerely believe we need more original and up-to-date pieces for big bands. At first, my bandmates said, ‘No way, are you crazy? We don’t work with scores!’ But then I told them, ‘I can help you out, show you some arrangement tricks and tips…’

 

And now, just a few years later—our drummer has released an amazing album, our classical bandmates (a trumpeter and a bass trombonist) have started releasing new music, our bass player just brought in the craziest piece ever, and our saxophones are going wild with fresh ideas. And it works.

 

This musicianship, this support for one another—it’s incredible. Because jazz, in its essence, is about sharing, thinking, and creating together, while still staying true to yourself.

 

Do we fight? Only with management—they make us be on time, even for our own private rehearsals… Just kidding! But honestly, without structure, all these great ideas would just be a bunch of guys hanging out, talking about releasing music someday.”

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