I first encountered the savvy of Peter Brendler’s bass when sizing up Jon Irabagon’s wild, seventy-eight minute improvisation ride, Foxy (2010). You May Also Like: Tom Tallitsch – Gratitude (2016) Tom Tallitsch – Wheelhouse (2018) Kevin Eubanks – East West Time Line (2017)

That burly baritone sax, it can be an abrasive sound maker, but in the right hands it can be this warm, inviting sonority. You May Also Like: Andrew Boudreau – ‘Neon’ (2022)

There are thoughtful pianists who play from the brain and passionate pianists who play from the heart. Matthew Shipp’s distinction has been that he’s always been a thoughtful pianist who plays from the heart. You May Also Like: Matthew Shipp Trio – ‘New Concepts in Piano Trio Jazz’ (2024)

Jeff Ballard is best known as Brad Mehldau’s longtime drummer and also one third of the critically acclaimed FLY trio with Mark Turner and Larry Grenadier. You May Also Like: Jeff Ballard – ‘Fairgrounds’ (2019) Dave Holland, Chris Potter, Lionel Loueke, Eric Harland – Aziza (2016)