The Norrbotten Big Band is a large modern jazz ensemble based in Lulea in Northern Sweden. Active for over 20 years, the ensemble has been led by several artistic directors including composer/arranger/conductor Örjan Fahlström (1989-1996) and post-bop trumpeter Tim Hagans (1996-present). The big band often features various guest soloists from around the world, and has released a bevy of albums including a self-titled 1996 release, 1998's Future North and 2009's Grammy-nominated The Avatar Sessions: The Music of Tim Hagans featuring trumpeter Randy Brecker, saxophonist George Garzone, drummer Peter Erskine, and others. ~ Matt Collar