Formed in 2010 in Kongsberg, the band originally emerged as a duo when guitarist Tom Hasslan and drummer Axel Skalstad—both former winners of the Kongsberg Jazz Festival recruitment scholarship—met in a local music shop and began exploring free music together. In 2012, they were joined by saxophonist Jørgen Mathisen, an established player known for his work with groups like Shagma, The Core, and Zanussi Five. Their explosive debut album arrived in 2014 on Rune Grammofon, quickly earning acclaim for its fusion of 1970s influences (King Crimson, Soft Machine, Mahavishnu Orchestra) with Coltrane-inspired intensity. Over the years, Krokofant released five acclaimed albums, occasionally expanding to a quintet with organist Ståle Storløkken and bassist Ingebrigt Håker Flaten for two releases and numerous tours. In 2025, the band returned to its core trio format for the album 6 (released on Is It Jazz? Records), celebrating a renewed focus on collective improvisation and raw energy. Tragically, the original lineup was shattered earlier in 2025 by the sudden death of co-founder and drummer Axel Skalstad at the age of 32. In the wake of this profound loss, Krokofant has forged ahead with a completely new rhythm section, introducing Ole Mofjell on drums and Rune Nergaard on bass alongside longtime members Tom Hasslan (guitar) and Jørgen Mathisen (saxophone). This refreshed quartet honors the band’s legacy while opening new creative paths, maintaining the signature blend of chugging riffs, soaring melodies, and fearless improvisation that has defined Krokofant from the start. The band continues to push boundaries, proving resilient and forward-looking in the face of adversity. (Text: Presseinfo)
