Ytre Suløens Jass-ensemble with Leroy Jones

Ytre Suløens Jass-Ensemble was founded in 1973 in Langevåg on Sunnmøre, and quickly grew from a local project into one of Norway’s leading traditional jazz bands. Their foundation has always been firmly rooted in the New Orleans tradition, but with a strong emphasis on personal interpretation rather than simple imitation. Their repertoire spans everything from early pioneers like Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton to modern composers such as Charles Mingus, Don Cherry, Carla Bley, Wynton Marsalis, and Tom Waits. During Moldejazz 2026 they will share the stage with trumpet legend Leroy Jones. An inferno of New Orleans vibes — right in the middle of Molde Cathedral, no less.

Over more than fifty years, the band has toured the world, recorded 26 albums, collaborated with a long list of Norwegian and international artists, and played at festivals across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. In 1976, they became the first Norwegian jazz band invited to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and in 1998 the members were named honorary citizens of the city.

The ensemble’s lineup has changed over time, but the unmistakable “Suløen sound” remains. Today, seasoned musicians are joined by younger talents who carry the legacy forward. Since 2002, New Orleans vocalist Tricia Boutté has been a central voice in the ensemble, further strengthening the band’s musical roots.

Ytre Suløens Jass-Ensemble is known for its wide musical range, strong storytelling ability, and themed concerts within both jazz and gospel. They are also behind several educational initiatives — including parade workshops at Moldejazz — which have inspired new generations of musicians.

Sturla Hauge Nilsen – trumpet
Lars Frank – clarinet / saxophone
Gunnar Bech – trombone
Svein Tore Anderson – banjo
Morten Gunnar Larsen – piano
David Gald – tuba
Kristoffer Tokle – drums
Tricia Boutté – vocals