Jazz... we've still got it!!! Pt.4

by

Wulfgar Darkenwald, Jr

Vibraphonist Joel Ross released his debut album, KingMaker, on Blue Note Records earlier this year. The twenty-three old artist composed eleven of the twelve songs; the other written by New Yorker Bianca Muniz and features jazz songstress Gretchen Parlato.

​The record reveals the influence that late vibraphonist Bobby Hutchinson has had on the young Ross, as well as, the impact of having studied under the almost incomparable vibraphonist Stefon Harris. The album is a workout of post-bebop jazz with exercises of more contemporary music while keeping pace with jazz tradition. One of the standout tracks is “Touched by an Angel”; a very melodic, almost lyrical song that highlights Ross’ range as both a composer and arranger.