Danish progressive music initiativeNew York, N.Y. – Reviving the golden music legacy between Copenhagen and New York, xo\cph, a cultural  initiative founded by Kaja MANAGEMENT, is bringing Denmark's progressive music scene to NYC Winter JazzFest this January 11, featuring Josefine Opsahl and Smag På Dig Selv – SPDS at Baby's All Right. 

Showcasing two cutting-edge Danish bands that embody Denmark’s rich legacy of musical innovation, the collaboration between Kaja MANAGEMENT and Winter Jazzfest follows the successful presentation of the transatlantic ensemble Hess Is More's "Apollonian Circles" at the 2024 festival, marking a growing connection between Danish talent and this prestigious international platform.

The performances aim to celebrate the historical bond between Denmark and the U.S.—a relationship forged during jazz’s golden era when Copenhagen became a global hub for artistic freedom—and to showcase how Denmark’s progressive music scene continues to thrive as a beacon of creativity. With genres spanning electronic, experimental, and improvisational music, the featured bands promise to deliver performances that resonate with the same spirit of innovation that made Copenhagen an iconic destination for jazz in the 20th century.

This initiative offers U.S. audiences a chance to experience how Denmark’s musical identity has evolved from its jazz heyday into a forward-thinking movement that challenges conventions and inspires global dialogue.

"Winter Jazzfest is an important platform for jazz, experimental sound and global creative impulses - and a gateway into the North American market for international artists. The collaboration between xo/cph and Winter Jazzfest aims at presenting the most interesting music from the Danish experimental music scene right now that is ready to enter the US market. We're proud to present two such versatile and progressive artists on this year's program." –  Kat Jarby, founder of Kaja MANAGEMENT and xo\cph.

Meet the artists:

Josefine Opsahl is a groundbreaking composer and musician who combines music, art, performance, and space in her work. With a fearless openness to genres and sounds, she reimagines the cello by blending traditional elements with electronics and improvisation. Her creations exist at the intersection of structure and intuition, exploring the balance between tradition and innovation as she seeks new forms of musical expression. Josefine’s work spans orchestral compositions, operas, and numerous solo performances, establishing her as a major force in contemporary music. Her accolades include the Crown Prince Couple's Cultural Stardust Award (2022) and the Leonie Sonnings Talent Prize (2021).

Smag På Dig Selv – SPDS is an electrifying trio featuring two saxophonists and a drummer. Their music is a dynamic fusion of punk, jazz, pop, Afro-beat, and 90s dance music, creating a sound that breaks boundaries and ignites audiences. Since forming in 2018, Smag På Dig Selv has been a dominant presence in Denmark's underground music scene, known for their raw, high-energy live performances. In April 2024, they released their debut album, ‘SPDS’, and have since performed at major festivals across Denmark, captivating crowds with their genre-defying sound and frenetic stage presence.

Listen to the artists:


About xo\cph
Created by Kaja MANAGEMENT, xo\cph is dedicated to reviving Denmark’s reputation as a global leader in progressive music. By showcasing groundbreaking artists and fostering cultural exchange, xo\cph reestablishes the historic ties between Copenhagen and international music capitals like New York. xo\cph is presented in collaboration with Copenhagen Jazz Festival.

About Kaja MANAGEMENT
Kaja MANAGEMENT is a Copenhagen-based artist management and music consultancy firm that specializes in supporting creative and genre-defying musicians. The company is committed to bringing Danish artists to the international stage, with a particular focus on markets in the U.S. and Europe.

Press Contact
CARVING PR
Ina Damm Muri
ina@carvingpr.com
970-948-9077