Jonas Johansen – composer, drummer (DK)

Jonas Johansen (b. 1962) is a true orchestral drummer, with a universal sound developed though 35 years of top level performances and close to 200 albums. Jonas’ special gift always delivers the extra touch that lifts the music. His personal and international sound is rooted in his deep knowledge of the jazz tradition and his ability to fluently incorporate inspiration from Latin America, Turkey, Spain, Africa and India. Jonas played with Danish Radio Big Band 1990 – 1999, NHØP trio with Ulf Wakenius 1996 – 2005, and stars like Enrico Pieranunzi, Eliane Elias, Marc Johnson, Steve Swallow, Mike Stern, Renee Rosnes, Egberto Gismonti, Toninho Horta, Airto Moreira, John Taylor, McCoy Tyner, John Scofield, Joe Henderson, Vince Mendoza, Tom Harrell, Jon Balke, Chris Minh Doky, Joyce Moreno and Kala Ramnath. Frequently used Big Band drummer with experience from a.o. Aarhus Jazz Orchestra, Norbotten Big Band, WDR Big Band, HR Big Band and NDR Big Band. Jonas is also an active bandleader in groups like MOVE (modern jazz), Blanco y Negro (Global Jazz), Tin Pan Aliens with Steve Swallow, Jazz Explorer Trio with Lars Møller and Thor Madsen, CharmCatcher and new groups coming up. Jonas has released 14 albums under his own name.