Absolute prime players in American jazz form Pentad led by Johnathan Blake, one of the most accomplished drummers of his generation. He grew up in Philadelphia, a historical nerve center of American music. On his most recent album Passage he pays tribute to his father, jazz violinist John Blake Jr., who passed away ten years ago. Rather than settle in a somber mood, the music reflects the extrovert and vibrant personalities of father and son.

Passage appeared on the legendary jazz label Blue Note, which also released Johnathan Blake’s previous album featuring the same line-up, Homeward Bound. Downbeat called Homeward Bound ‘a celebration of life and legacy, bursting with exuberance and lighthearted energy.’ Johnathan Blake has collaborated with major players such as Pharoah Sanders, Chris Potter and Avishai Cohen, and he has previously performed on our stage in the bands of Tom Harrell, Ravi Coltrane and Oded Tzur.

Jaleel Shaw alto sax, Fabian Almazan piano, Warren Wolf vibraphone, Dezron Douglas bass, Johnathan Blake drums