US jazz album of the year. Also best jazz album of the year from anywhere led by a saxophonist: alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins makes quite an impact. Produced by Jason Moran pianist Micah Thomas, bassist Daryl Johns, and drummer Kweku Sumbry are with their fellow American on this socially conscious black lives matter-relevant record. Highlights include the bass grounded track 'The Dreamer' where there is a real subtlety in the group interplay. Wilkins has a delicately sinuous, expressive tone, a little reminiscent of Greg Osby's, and the record overall owes something in common with the approach of trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire. A record that anyone interested in jazz today needs to hear. Read an interview with Immanuel here
marlbank albums of the year will be published on Thursday 31 December round midnight
Tags: