Swedish pianist and composer Mats Skimmelå brings a lively modern jazz sound to his latest composition, “Fenway.” Named after Fenway Street in Boston, the track is an uptempo jazz piece built around an unusual chord progression and a distinctive chromatic descending bass line.
“Fenway” immediately stands out through its harmonic character. Rather than relying on a straightforward progression, Skimmelå creates movement through unexpected chord changes, while the descending bass line adds another layer of musical tension and direction. The result is a cool, energetic composition that gives the musicians plenty of space to work within its structure.
Skimmelå’s connection with both piano and guitar has played an important role in shaping his musical development. Born in Sweden in 1965, he began with piano before switching to guitar, where discovering the possibilities of playing chords became an important moment in his musical life. He eventually returned to piano at 18 and continued his studies at two Swedish folk high schools.
His musical journey later took him to Boston in 1991, where he studied at Berklee College of Music. That experience adds an interesting connection to “Fenway,” as the composition takes its name from a Boston street.
With its upbeat pace, inventive harmony and descending bass movement, “Fenway” showcases Skimmelå’s appreciation for modern jazz while reflecting the musical experiences that have shaped him over the years.
