Music Monday: New and Not So New

I’ve been working on book layout and some low-bandwidth writing this weekend and that gave me plenty of time to listen to music. There is a bunch of new music (and recent music) that I had missed last year or during my time abroad. I also want to get to know some Korean (and Korean-American) jazz and improvised music before my trip in a few weeks.

First, I’ve really enjoyed listening to vibraphonist Patricia Brennan’s latest album Breaking Stretch (2024) which I saw just won DownBeat’s magazine’s album of the year. It features Mark Shim and Jon Irabagon on sax, Adam O’Farrill on trumpet, Marcus Gilmore and Mauricio Herrera on percussion, and Kim Cass on bass. And the album sounds as big as the septet who performs on it. In fact, there are times when Brennan’s vibes get lost in the swelling melodies of the music. That’s ok. It’s still a compelling listen. Check it out.

I’ve also really enjoyed tuba-player Theon Cross’s brand new album Affirmations: Live at the Blue Note New York (2025). Like Breaking Stretch, it features an all-star cast with Isaiah Collier on sax, Nikos Ziarkas on guitar, and James Russell Sims on percussion. It’s a fun recording with a casual vibe that gives everyone a chance to shine. It’s a great summer night listen:

Finally, I’ve been sampling some Korean (and Korean-American) jazz and have been enjoying the Sol Jang Trio’s 19-29. Korean pianist Sol Jang partners with bassist Jort Terwijn and drummer Max Hering. The album is lyrical and beautiful and a pleasant companion on a summer evening.