by Howard Reich Chicago Tribune November 21, 2014 What else does drummer Jason Marsalis play? Vibes, and quite well. Listeners often think of Jason Marsalis first as Wynton Marsalis’ younger brother and second as a New Orleans drummer. But like his siblings – including saxophonist Branford and trombonist Delfeayo – Jason stands as a first-rate […]
The most immediately arresting aspect of last night’s performance….was the profoundly cool sound he summoned from the instrument before him
Not just vibraphone, but glockenspiel, xylophone, marimba and even tubular bells. The youngest of the remarkable Marsalis brothers plays them all….
“brilliant ideas that sound as if he’s played them his whole life, but are really coming off the top of his head.”
This album showcases Marsalis’ command of the vibraphone’s melodic and percussive qualities, as well as the leader’s eagerness to share the spotlight with his fine collaborators.
Nice follow-up to last year’s winning release In a World of Mallets.
It’s clear The 21st Century Trad Band is a continuation of that chapter, and it’s full of those “brilliant ideas” for which the bandleader has become known.
it will make you want to just listen with your eyes closed so there are no distractions.
by William Ruben Helms The Joy of Violent Movement September 24, 2014 There are certain artists who are immediately synonymous with a particular location. You think of Bruce Springsteen, you immediately think of New Jersey, and of the venerable, Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ; The Ramones, The Talking Heads, Television and Blondie should bring to […]
by Leith Tigges Where Y’At September 22, 2014 I have to thank Jason Marsalis for introducing my ears to the brilliance that is the vibraphone. A clear talent, Marsalis is a NOLA native and has long been experimenting with instruments, often collaborating with fellow musicians and groups until finally taking the lead as an album […]