Mikko Gunu Karjalainen, based in Helsinki, Finland, but partially moved to Turku recently, is a jazz musician, trumpet player, pianist, and composer. He is the absolute domestic elite of his instrument. He is currently a member of Teddy´s West Coasters, Ricky Tick Big Band & Julkinen Sana, G.W.V. Bach, and many others. His projects include Mikko Gunu Karjalainen Italian Quartet, K.Å.M. trio, and Fellowship Quintet. His tone is warm, soulful, and beautifully controlled. His playing is rhythmically clear and determined, and his storytelling is always a pleasure to follow. Karjalainen has also shared the stage with jazz superstars such as Joe Lovano and John Scofield. The graced lyricist conjures tones suitable for the atmosphere of the Baltic Sea day with pianist Jussi Fredriksson.

Jussi Fredriksson is a Finnish jazz musician, composer, music pedagogue, and producer. Fredriksson originally hails from the culturally rich city of Turku and nowadays lives in Helsinki. He plays an active part in the jazz lives of both of the cities and works actively as a musician, manning both pianist/keyboardist slots and drum stools of several ensembles. Fredriksson is also a member of the organization’s board of the Finnish Jazz Federation and he has also acted as the Artistic Director of the Korpo Sea Jazz Festival.

At SHIFT Flame Jazz presents: Mikko Gunu Karjalainen & Jussi Fredriksson Duo will perform Jazz from the Finnish Archipelago.