BYGE
Jazz i Sikte winner from Bergen

Byge is a fresh sextet playing their own compositions inspired by the Scandinavian jazz scene, with elements from both free improvisation and pop. The ensemble focuses on catchy melodies and riffs, but also on freely improvised stretches. The band is particularly inspired by the Nordic landscape in both instrumentation and interplay, as well as in their lyrics. The jury in Bergen had the following to say: *"Great compositions, arrangements, and instrumentation. The musicians are disciplined and mature. They have excellent interplay, a nice balance, and a colorful and original sound. We look forward to following their development and hearing a full concert by this sextet."

HANNA ELISE HÆRUM vocals FANNY LUDESCHER flute KATRINE HELLAND trumpet ADRIAN OLSEN piano ASK VISTE double bass LINUS HANEM SOLVANG drums
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ERLE FONNELAND KVINTETT
Jazz i Sikte winner from Stavanger

Erle Fonneland Kvintett is a Norwegian modern jazz quintet with roots from the jazz program in Stavanger, along with input from the rhythm program in Agder. In the summer of 2024, Fonneland released her debut album, *Komorebi*, which gained attention both domestically and internationally. As a composer, she is focused on letting the music develop without limitations from genres or established musical norms, staying true to the unrefined imagination.

The jury in Stavanger had the following to say:
"Erle Fonneland Kvintett impresses with a great collective sound, beautiful grooves, and excellent solos. Erle writes great songs, and she has a refreshing playfulness in how she uses her voice, which allows her to create a great dynamic in her musical expression."

ERLE FONNELAND vocals OLE MARTIN ROSVOLD HAUGEN trumpet THORBJØRN SÄLL keys EIVIND BRATLAND bass EIRIK JARL GJØLME drums