Ingebrigt Håker Flaten (Exit) Knarr

In the organizer's words:

Knarr, originally conceived as a commissioned project for Vossa Jazz 2020, has evolved into a dynamic, boundary-pushing ensemble that seamlessly blends elements of Norwegian folk music, avant-garde jazz and international rhythms. Led by Norwegian bassist Ingebrigt Håker Flaten, the band draws on his extensive career spanning various genres and traditions to create a sound that is both deeply rooted and startlingly innovative. Since its inception, (Exit) Knarr has toured extensively throughout Europe, garnering acclaim at prestigious festivals and establishing itself as a formidable force in contemporary jazz.
With an impressive line-up of musicians - Oddrun Lilja, Marta Warelis, Mette Rasmussen, Amalie Dahl, Eivind Lønning, Erik Kimestad Pedersen, Joakim Rainer Petersen, Atle Nymo, Olaf Olsen, Oscar Grønberg, Karl Hjalmar Nyberg and Jonathan F. Horne - the ensemble shows a remarkable ability to evolve in different line-ups. Their second album Breezy, released on September 27, 2024 on Sonic Transmissions Records, marked another milestone for the group. The album was a moving tribute to the late American trumpeter Jamie Breezy Branch, a defining figure in modern jazz, and reflected the band's commitment to exploring new musical territory.

In Spring 2025, (Exit) Knarr returns with DROPS - a bold third studio album that delves into the world of graphic scores and collective exploration. With a permanent line-up consisting of Amalie Dahl, Karl Hjalmar Nyberg, Marta Warelis, Jonathan F. Horne and Olaf Olsen, the band transforms abstract concepts into tangible, ever-changing soundscapes rooted in jazz, improvisation and electronic music. "Austin Vibes" was masterfully refined by Karl Hjalmar Nyberg.

The beginnings of (Exit) Knarr reveal a spark of creative synergy that has only grown stronger with time. For anyone familiar with Håker Flatten's three-decade career as one of the most outstanding musicians in jazz and improvised music, it was clear from the start that this project was something special. (Exit) Knarr is not just a band, but a space for artistic collaboration, where great musicians inspire each other and create something truly unique together. This ethos is palpable in the sheer joy of playing captured on Drops. Few bands in 2025 can hold a candle to the vibrant energy and spirit of discovery of (Exit) Knarr - making it not only a pleasure to listen to them, but undoubtedly a pleasure to be a part of.