Vinyl LP pressing. Stefan Pasborg's Dear Alex is a deeply personal tribute to Danish drumming legend Alex Riel, a towering figure in jazz whose influence spanned generations. More than just a musical mentor, Riel was Pasborg's legal godfather and a guiding presence in his life. With this album, Pasborg honors their bond and Riel's immense legacy, bringing together a trio of top Danish musicians-Carsten Dahl (piano) and Fredrik Lundin (tenor sax)-to celebrate Riel's spirit. The inspiration for the album came when Pasborg discovered a handwritten list of Riel's favorite songs. Deeply moved, he invited Dahl and Lundin into the studio to reimagine these timeless melodies with the same spontaneity and warmth that characterized Riel's playing. The result is a collection of heartfelt interpretations, capturing both the playfulness and depth that made Riel such a revered musician. A particularly poignant moment on the album is ""In Another Way"", where Pasborg weaves five passages from Riel's 1966 solo improvisation In A Way into his own drum solo. For a few seconds, Riel's playing can be heard, living on within this new recording-a moving testament to his enduring impact. Adding to the tribute, Pasborg recorded the title track using Riel's legendary 1960s Gretsch drum kit, the same one featured on his debut album. Dear Alex is more than a tribute album; it's a love letter from one drummer to another, from one generation to the next. Pasborg's liner notes express his gratitude: ""Alex, thank you for all you were and all you gave. We will never forget you. This album is from us to you.""
