There’s something special about a jazz trio that knows how to groove. When Swedish jazz trio Three Small Giants (TSG) sets the stage, you don’t just listen—you move. Their latest single, a cover of Horace Silver’s “Doodlin’,” which came out on February 14,is a masterclass in infectious rhythm, warm harmonies, and effortless cool. With just upright bass, guitar, and vocals, they prove that simplicity doesn’t mean small—it means precision, soul, and swing. Beautiful and infectious, TSG makes sure to mesmerize their fans effortlessly with a cover single that distinguishes itself. Let’s delve in!
From the onset, “Doodlin’” draws you in with a gentle yet confident groove. Patric Skog’s guitar opens with a laid-back, bluesy charm, each note dripping with ease and intention. Sebastian Hankers lays down a smooth, a playful and steady walking bassline that sets the foundation for what’s to come. The arrangement is so crisp and inviting that you can almost see the dim lights of a jazz club, and feel the warmth of an audience swaying in unison.
Then comes Karina Kampe’s vocals, weaving effortlessly through the melody with a rich, expressive tone. She doesn’t just sing—she converses, teases, and swings with the playfulness that Jon Hendricks’ lyrics demand. Her phrasing is impeccable, landing in that sweet spot between classic jazz storytelling and a modern, lighthearted charm. There’s a knowing wink in her delivery, a kind of effortless cool that only comes from deep understanding and love for the genre.
Production-wise, “Doodlin’” is beautifully clean, allowing each instrument to breathe and shine. The mix is intimate, bringing out the trio’s natural chemistry without unnecessary embellishments. Every pluck of the bass, every guitar run, every vocal nuance is right where it needs to be. It’s jazz at its purest—dynamic, unfiltered, and full of life.
Three Small Giants aren’t just covering a jazz classic; they’re reviving its energy, blending James Brown-inspired funk with the timeless allure of small-combo jazz. It’s no surprise that critics have called their music “a real happy pill, full of humor and ingenuity.” There’s joy in their sound, and it’s absolutely contagious. If you are looking to add a little swing to your day, “Doodlin’” is the perfect soundtrack. Just be warned—standing still is not an option.
Listen to “Doodlin'” on Spotify
Follow TSG here for more information
