LISTEN TO “QUARTER TO MIDNIGHT”

BOB FORTE SCANDINAVIAN SESSION

With Quarter To Midnight, Bob Forte takes a bold and determined leap into the world of jazz. Stepping outside his blues roots, Forte surrounded himself with his favorite Scandinavian masters to create a sophisticated exploration where two genres intersect.

Fronted by Forte’s soulful vocals and distinctive guitar work, the group features master guitarist Erik Weissglas (whose career includes performances with renowned artists like Georg Riedel and Svante Henryson) and is anchored by a formidable rhythm section. This elite foundation includes double bass player Hans Backenroth (a Swedish "Golden Disc" winner who has collaborated with legends like Toots Thielemans and Clark Terry) and veteran drummer Joakim Ekberg, whose global credits range from Kenny Barron to Scott Hamilton.

Recorded and mixed by Tomas Johannesson, the album captures the spirit of the classic era where chemistry is paramount. No song required more than three takes, with several captured in a single, magic moment. Quarter To Midnight is elegant, earthy, and endlessly creative document of a bluesman finding a new home in jazz under the wing of these masters.