13.30

Chico Matada

Chico Matada is a Mozambique-born drummer, composer, and bandleader whose music blends African rhythmic traditions with modern jazz, cinematic arrangements and improvisation. Released in April 2026 by Eclipse Records, his latest album features a multinational ensemble of musicians. At Jazz-Espa, Matada presents his unique compositional language, where deep-reaching roots and modern expression converge. The music is simultaneously meditative and rhythmically vibrant—an invitation for the audience to pause, listen, and feel. 

Rafa Postel – trumpet 
Nikita Rafaelov – piano and synthesizers 
Hector Lepe – guitar 
Melik Turunen – bass 
Chico Matada – drums 

Photo: Linda Lehtovaara

16.00

J TIKKA

J TIKKA is the solo project of saxophonist Jarno Tikka. On his recent debut album, Hear My Whisper, he blends jazz tradition with modern hip hop. The album is a captivating example of contemporary Scandinavian jazz, where Tikka’s soulful saxophone merges seamlessly with MPC drum machine rhythms familiar from the world of hip hop. 

On the record, Tikka handled all instruments and production himself. In a live setting, however, the music comes to life through a brilliant ensemble, allowing the compositions to take on a new form. 

Jarno Tikka – saxophone 
Mikko Antila – vibraphone, keyboards, percussion 
Eero Seppä – bass 
Okko Saastamoinen – drums 

Photo: Samu Hintsa

17.15

Eero Savela Quartet

Eero Savela Quartet’s music is built upon the compositions of trumpeter and composer Eero Savela, which serve as the foundation for the ensemble’s interplay. Clear melodies provide an accessible surface, yet the band broad-mindedly pushes the music into freer directions. Released in August 2025, the album Way To was nominated for an Indie Award, and Tina Edwards of BBC Radio 3 ranked it among the best releases of the year. 

The quartet’s musicians represent several generations and are well-known figures across jazz and various other musical genres. Their playing emphasizes listening, interaction, and a distinctive collective sound. 

Eero Savela – trumpet 
Seppo Kantonen – electric piano 
Eero Tikkanen – double bass 
Joonas Leppänen – drums 

Photo: Klaus Elfving