Triple Amen: The Debut Album from Lighthouse

Released on September 13th 2019, Triple Amen marks the debut album of Lighthouse—a vibrant and exploratory project from a seasoned quartet featuring Malin Wättring (tenor and soprano saxophone, clarinet), Staffan Svensson (trumpet, flugelhorn), Magnus Bergström (bass), and Peter Danemo (drums, glockenspiel, pump organ).

The project began with Danemo’s desire to collaborate in a small group with Staffan Svensson. Over time, it evolved into a dynamic exchange of fresh musical ideas.

— Staffan and I have a long musical history together, Danemo explains. We discussed different musicians and the kind of setting we envisioned. I had recently heard Malin Wättring and was captivated by both her playing and her compositional style. Staffan suggested bassist Magnus Bergström, whom I wasn’t familiar with at the time. After listening to him, I was immediately drawn to his rich sound and deeply musical approach.

The album emerged from a collaborative compositional process between Danemo and Wättring. It began with an initial session of semi-finished sketches—playing, experimenting, jamming, laughing, and engaging in deep discussions. From there, the compositions gradually took shape, with both composers inspiring and challenging each other creatively.

— Malin sent me a half-finished song—raw material with some defined elements and others left open-ended. It was a fun and challenging task, which eventually became “Waiting.” In return, I sent her a page from one of my sketchbooks. She transformed it into a stunning piece, drawing inspiration from some chords hidden in my messy notes.

— One day, Malin sent me just a melody—no chords, no tempo, no guidance whatsoever. I had no idea how to approach it. I played and hummed it over and over for days, struggling to find a direction. Finally, I let go of trying so hard and focused on a single phrase, moving it lower and lower on the piano until it disappeared. Then, suddenly, I knew exactly what to do. The song came together in no time, as if I were simply witnessing it unfold. That piece became the title track, “Triple Amen.” What first seemed impossible became effortless the moment I stopped forcing it.

Lighthouse resists categorizing their music, believing labels can be more restrictive than illuminating. They also emphasize that their music is not tailored to any specific audience—it requires no special prerequisites to be enjoyed. Instead, their sound is open, filled with spontaneous interaction and warm communication.

— I believe everyone can find something to appreciate in our music. All it takes is a little curiosity, Danemo concludes.

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