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  • Once Simonsson had decided to expand his longtime project, trio Saga, he quickly made clear that he would, for sure, take advantage of the two new voices that Joakim Milder and Thomas Opava would contribute with, in every possible way. The compositions, all composed and arranged by Simonsson, are imbued with the character of his fellow musicians as well as the challenges that he poses their musical dexterity, encouraging their expressiveness of interpretation. Strong melodies with often a poetic touch, binds the improvisations throughout the album.

    Reviews on When we still believed in magic:
    “Joakim Simonsson's ensemble is a genuine working group, which together has made one of this year's best records.”
    - Nerikes Allehanda

    “It is pleasant to know, that young musicians appear who can manage the jazz tradition and at the same time create new and fresh music.”
    - OrkesterJournalen

    “Joakim Simonsson finds his place within the traditions, but still manages to stretch the boundaries in an impressive way.”
    - Metica.se

    “Simonsson has chosen musicians who manage to do his characteristic and timeless music justice.”
    - Västerbottens Kuriren

    “All the time beautiful, all the time unexpected.”
    - Sonic

    “Brilliant moment with Joakim Simonsson.”
    - Dagens Nyheter

    “Like a declaration of love in it's beauty.”
    - Jazz Hot