Human Being Human & Chris Cheek - Being

Denmark’s forward-thinking trio Human Being Human return with a luminous new collaboration featuring acclaimed American saxophonist Chris Cheek. Rooted in lyricism, groove, and connection, Being captures the essence of what it means to create music as a shared act of humanity.

Formed by bassist Torben Bjørnskov, pianist Esben Tjalve, and drummer Frederik Bülow, Human Being Human have quickly earned a reputation as one of Europe’s most distinctive piano trios. Their blend of Nordic lyricism and modern rhythmic vitality has drawn international acclaim for its compositional voice and cohesive ensemble sound.

On Being, the trio expand their world through the unmistakable voice of Chris Cheek - a player known for his warm tone and intuitive lyricism, whose credits include work with Paul Motian, Brad Mehldau, and Charlie Haden. A long-time admirer of Cheek’s work and humility, Bjørnskov reached out and invited him to Denmark to collaborate with the trio. In the studio, the chemistry was undeniable, as most of the album’s tracks were captured in just one or two takes, preserving a sense of immediacy and spontaneity.

Reflecting on what it means to be human, our capacity to make decisions and shape the world around us, as well as the damage our species has done to our planet, the quartet channels a spirit of contemplation and rediscovery through elegant, organic compositions. Tracks like Human Rights showcase the group’s deft interplay and melodic clarity, while the tender ballad Being highlights Cheek’s burnished tone and Tjalve’s spacious harmonic sense. On Filia, a duo between bass and saxophone, the music unfolds in weightless dialogue and pure musical empathy.

True to the group’s name, Being reflects on what it means to live, connect, and create as humans in a complex world. “The essence of music is working together, being open, being positive, and wanting to experience new things,” says Bjørnskov. “That’s essentially what jazz is – it’s influenced by any and every culture in the world, every kind of music and race, and every person is part of it.” 

Torben Bjørnskov double bass
Esben Tjalve piano
Frederik Bülow drums
Chris Cheek Saxophones