On July 21, 2024, vibraphonist Jalen Baker led an evocative performance at The Underground at Jaffe Drive, featuring pianist Luther Allison, bassist Gabriel Godoy, and drummer Gavin Moolchan. This concert was part of Lincoln Center's "Summer for the City" series, presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center. (lincolncenter.org)
The quartet's set showcased compositions from Baker's latest album, Be Still, released in July 2023. Recorded at GB’s Juke Joint in Long Island City, New York, the album features Baker on vibraphone, with Paul Cornish on piano, Gabe Godoy on bass, and Gavin Moolchan on drums. (jalenbaker.bandcamp.com) The performance highlighted the group's cohesive interplay and Baker's expressive vibraphone work, resonating with the themes of growth and introspection explored in the album.
This engagement marked a significant moment in Baker's career, reflecting his continued evolution as a bandleader and his commitment to presenting original modern jazz compositions. The collaboration with Godoy and Moolchan, both featured on Be Still, underscored the ensemble's tight-knit musical chemistry. The concert was well-received, contributing to the vibrant jazz offerings of the summer season.
