Truth to Power
Black Art Jazz Collective (jazz ensemble)
Overall, the Black Art Jazz Collective has its own sound that delivers a strong message. This is jazz from a black point of view as I remember it in the 1960s and '70s, which means it's deeply...
Truth to Power
Black Art Jazz Collective (jazz ensemble)
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Overall, the Black Art Jazz Collective has its own sound that delivers a strong message. This is jazz from a black point of view as I remember it in the 1960s and '70s, which means it's deeply...
About
For its 10th anniversary release, the Black Art Jazz Collective (BAJC), hailed by DownBeat Magazine as "a powerhouse of contemporary jazz talent," offers ten exciting and unique works that speak to both artistic freedom and musical sensibility relative to the tenor of our times. The band features an all-star line-up, including founding members Wayne Escoffery, Jeremy Pelt, James Burton III, Xavier Davis and Johnathan Blake who are joined by current members Victor Gould, Rashaan Carter and Mark Whitfield Jr. Wayne Escoffery tells us, "I formed Black Art Jazz Collective as an ensemble of African American musicians, celebrating Black culture and the origins of the music through original compositions with unapologetic pride."
Wayne Escoffery: tenor saxophone
Jeremy Pelt: trumpet
Josh Evans, Wallace Roney Jr: trumpets (track 3)
James Burton III: trombone
Xavier Davis: piano (tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 & 10)
Victor Gould: piano (tracks 3, 6, 7 & 8)
Vicente Archer: bass (tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 & 10)
Rashaan Carter: bass (tracks 3, 6, 7 & 8)
Johnathan Blake: drums (tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 & 10)
Mark Whitfield Jr: drums (tracks 3, 6, 7 & 8)
Contents and tracklist
Awards and reviews
Overall, the Black Art Jazz Collective has its own sound that delivers a strong message. This is jazz from a black point of view as I remember it in the 1960s and '70s, which means it's deeply felt and muscular in a poetic, meaningful way. Check it out.
June 2024
The Black Art Jazz Collective mark their 10th anniversary with a stirring collection of originals recorded by two different line-ups over two days. Lean, muscular arrangements, a sonorous front line and vibrant rhythms confirm Jazz Messenger’s roots. Strong personalities and drummers Johnathan Blake and Mark Whitfield deliver the contemporary twist.
A wonderful celebration of jazz in the 21st century that has its roots in the tradition and its focus on the future of the music.
