On July 9, 2025, the Village Vanguard hosted a remarkable performance by drummer Billy Hart and his quartet, featuring pianist Ethan Iverson, bassist Ben Street, and tenor saxophonist Walter Smith III. This ensemble was not only a reunion of Hart's longstanding collaborators but also a showcase of their collective musical evolution. The quartet's synergy was evident in their intricate interplay and spontaneous improvisations, reflecting the deep musical rapport they've developed over the years.
At the time, Hart was preparing for the release of his live album, Multidirectional, recorded in December 2023 at SMOKE Jazz Club in New York City. This album captures the quartet's dynamic performances and was released on November 21, 2025. (billyhart.bandcamp.com) The July 9 performance at the Vanguard served as a precursor to this release, offering the audience a live preview of the material that would later be immortalized in the album.
The collaboration between Hart, Iverson, Street, and Smith III has been a cornerstone of Hart's recent work. Their collective efforts have produced compositions that blend complex rhythms with melodic depth, as seen in their 2025 ECM release, Just. (billyhartmusic.com) The July 9 performance at the Village Vanguard was a testament to the quartet's enduring chemistry and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz.
