On February 23, 2023, vibraphonist Joel Ross graced the Village Vanguard with a performance that underscored his evolving artistry. At that time, Ross was preparing to release his fourth Blue Note album, nublues, scheduled for February 9, 2024. This album delved into ballads and blues, featuring compositions by Ross alongside interpretations of John Coltrane's "Equinox" and "Central Park West," and Thelonious Monk's "Evidence." (bluenote.com)
The ensemble for this engagement included pianist Jeremy Corren, bassist Kanoa Mendenhall, and drummer Jeremy Dutton—core members of Ross's band, Good Vibes. Their cohesive interplay was evident in the live setting, reflecting the band's dynamic synergy. Notably, this performance marked one of the early showcases of material that would later appear on nublues, offering the audience a preview of Ross's exploration into the blues-infused jazz landscape.
While specific reviews of this February 23 performance are not readily available, the concert was part of a series of shows at the Village Vanguard, a venue known for hosting significant jazz events. This run provided Ross with an esteemed platform to present his latest work to a discerning audience, further solidifying his presence in the jazz community.