NEO has a unique band sound that steams from the unusual jazz instrumentation of double bass, violin, saxophone and battery. The tunes are composed and arranged by Johannes Nästesjö. NEO consists of four strong individuals that together make up an even stronger musical collective. Johannes Nästesjö: double bass, Stefan Pöntinen: violin, Peter Nilsson (replaced Michala Østergaard-Nielsen in august 2012): drums/percussion/glockenspiel, Marcelo Gabard Pazos: alto- and baritone saxofon.

NEO´s debut album were very well received with outstanding reviews. NEO also got nominated for the best jazzalbum at manifestgalan 2011.

“The so-called NEO Suite is the highlight of the record. The tip-tapping ”Denmark”, the soothing violin-filled ”Ingermanland”, the rough ”Kansas”, where the violin and Marcelo Gabard Pazos’baritone saxophone weave intricate patterns, and the final piece ”Uruguay”, where predetermined art music is released into free excursions, and a sad duet between alto saxophone and violin. This is where the arrangements of composer and bass player Johannes Nästesjö really shine.”
Magnus Nygren: sound of music, www.soundofmusic.nu

His bass playing naturally finds the important common denominators, and composition-wise, every ingredient serves its purpose.”
Johannes Cornell; Dagens Nyheter (Sweden’s most influential newspaper)

The whole record is only just over half an hour, which feels very right. There’s only room for the essential notes, all the fuss and unnecessary ornamentation has been left out. Nästesjö’s bass playing has the same quality, sparse, gaining rhythmic significance through a beautiful and clear sound. Pöntinen’s violin sometimes takes on an art music expression, and Gabard Pazos’ alto saxophone has a restrained intensity that I find appealing.”
Jan Strand: Orkester Journalen (jazz magazine)

It is entirely enjoyable, and a brilliant debut for NEO.”
Stefan Nilsson: Nerikes Allehanda (newspaper)

"it's really a fulfilling recording. i love the writing throughout the entire cd. the whole concept is so unified -- that's what really grabbed my attention. yes, all of you guys play your asses off.....but the real message is not only the unified sound and (to my ear and HEART), but the total commitment you all have as a group to making the MUSIC! which, to me means putting aside personality and favoring playing that which the music requires. and as a composer i really feel you hit a bull's eye on this one."
Ken Filiano: free-lance musician, Brooklyn NY.  

Contact: theuniverseofneo@gmail.com








Ciara Princess Harris (born October 25, 1985), known professionally as Ciara, is an American singer-songwriter, dancer, actress and fashion model.

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