Discover the unique charm of Norwegian jazz at the EFG London Jazz Festival, featuring two exceptional artists showcasing the innovative blend of traditional melodies and modern rhythms that define Norway's vibrant jazz scene.

A gifted composer and guitarist, Norwegian artist LILJA (Oddrun Lilja) has been making waves on the jazz scene with her innovative, multifaceted ensemble.

LILJA’s debut album Marble (2020), was met with rave reviews from critics and audiences in her homeland, while the 2023 follow up, Mirage, featuring eclectic collaborations with traditional musicians from Sápmi, Brazil, Morocco and Pakistan was nominated for the Norwegian Grammy Award. Such daring, stylistic fusion has become a hallmark of LILJA's sound and made her one of the brightest new stars on the Oslo jazz scene.

One of Norway’s most celebrated players of Hardangerfiddle and violin, Nils Økland has been quietly forging new paths in traditionally rooted music for the last 35 years. His distinctive music bridges the worlds of traditional folk and contemporary, forging links between the ancient and modern, written and improvised. The Hardanger’s plaintive, mourning sound, enhanced by its resonating strings, carries the listener to the high mountains of Norway and their majestic nature. 

He is joined by his son, artist and producer Henrik Økland, performing on instruments including the traditional Norwegian flute, carved from willow. After studying jazz at the Grieg Academy and electronic music at University of Agder-Kristiansand, Henrik has won various prizes for his work that has encompassed electronic soundscapes and acoustic, traditional music.