Toms Rudzinskis releases second “Abyss” album, “Abyss II”

Saxophonist and composer Toms Rudzinskis has released “Abyss II”, the second studio album by his international project “Abyss”. The nine-track record is built around a cycle of civilisation's emergence, division and renewal, combining contemporary jazz, heavy riffs, electronics and open improvisation.

Line-up and recording

Alongside Rudzinskis, the project features vocalist Kristīne Cīrule, guitarist Igor Osypov, keyboardist Povel Widestrand, bassist Kenneth Dahl Knudsen and drummer Matias Fischer. Rudzinskis plays saxophone, flute and clarinet, and is the composer and arranger of every piece on the album.

The project's debut album, “Abyss”, came out in 2023 and won the Latvian music recording award “Zelta Mikrofons” as best jazz album.

The new record was made on 2 and 3 September last year at Auss Studio in Riga. Gatis Zaķis was the sound engineer, with Marks Rēpelis assisting. Charis Karantzas handled the mix, and mastering was done by Douglas Henderson at Micro-Moose-Berlin.

Music and concept

The compositions use layered textures, extended forms and recurring motifs that return in altered form across different pieces. Each track stands as an independent composition while staying connected to the album's overall idea.

Rudzinskis says “Abyss II” is heavier and more riff-driven, yet continues the direction set by the first album. Whereas the first told the journey of a single hero, he sees the second as tied to the cycle of civilisation's emergence, division and renewal.

The album opens with “Invocation”, which sounds mysterious and slightly menacing. The musicians name “Rift” as one of the most riff-based pieces, while “Precipice” serves as the album's culminating point. The reviewer also highlights “Eclipse”, “Flicker” and “Tide”, calling the last his personal favourite.

Launch concert

The presentation concert for “Abyss II” will take place on 24 October at the “Cēsis” concert hall.