Guitarist Jaak Sooäär is a leading jazz educator at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre and one of the founders of Estonian Jazz Union, which has tirelessly promoted Estonian jazz throughout Europe, and celebrated as one of the pillars of the Estonian jazz scene. Sooäär's playing credits beyond Estonia include something of a who’s who of European jazz with names like Louis Sclavis, Pierre Dørge, Anders Jormin, Raoul Björkenheim, Han Bennik, and Mikko Innanen, as well as performing as a guest soloist with the WDR Big Band.

For those unfamiliar with his accomplishments, Zula is a fine introduction. With subtle folkloric allusions, Sooäär's playing is distinctive in its precise lyricism and well voiced harmonies. The title track is a good example of his playing. Unhurried, he’s not out to blind you with guitar science, but woo you with melody, space, beguiling harmony and softly spoken rhythm. With just bass and drums accompaniment he is the central exhibit, his technique, time and musical imagination on display with nowhere to hide. He is, however, a master craftsman, one of the busiest jazz musicians in the Baltic region now deservedly gaining wider recognition in Europe, and this album a good example of his playing.