Next up in our series, we present the incomparable Mark Turner in a set from just 4 days ago! He brought his group to Chicago’s newest and hippest jazz venue, Constellation. They played 2 sets that drew mostly from his latest album, Lathe of Heaven, which hit the shelves only a couple weeks ago. What an experience!
I must admit, I picked up the album as soon as it came out, and I listened to it a few times with a bit of difficulty. My ears were unsure of how to process some of the 2 part horn harmonies without chordal support. However, witnessing this group live in such an intimate setting as Constellation drew me in, and I was spellbound by the end of the show. Mark’s tone coated the room with such a lush, dark, and gentle hue, and his compositions proved both creative and satisfying.
Avishai must be the most underrated trumpet player on the scene today, so I’m glad he’s seeing the spotlight with the likes of Mark and the SF Collective. I’d heard Justin Brown with Gerald Clayton a few times, and his sensitive, active presence on the drums is always a treat. He’s such a fantastic listener. And although I’d heard Joe Martin on record, his playing in person was even more fulfilling. Overall, what a show!
Mark Turner – Sax
Avishai Cohen – Trumpet
Justin Brown – Drums
Joe Martin – Bass
