On May 22, 2025, vibraphonist Joel Ross led an exceptional ensemble at the Village Vanguard, featuring Jeremy Corren on piano, Rick Rosato on bass, Godwin Louis and Maria Grand on saxophones, Kalia Vandever on trombone, Elena Pinderhughes on flute, Kayvon Gordon on drums, and Ekep Nkwelle on vocals. This performance was part of Ross's tour promoting his forthcoming album, Gospel Music, slated for release on January 30, 2026. The album is a sonic interpretation of the biblical story, exploring themes of faith, hope, and love, with compositions that correspond to biblical texts included in the liner notes. (webwire.com)
The lineup for this performance was particularly notable, as it included several musicians who would later contribute to Ross's Gospel Music album. Notably, Maria Grand, who played tenor saxophone during the set, is featured on the album, highlighting the collaborative nature of Ross's work. (webwire.com) The inclusion of Ekep Nkwelle on vocals added a unique dimension to the performance, blending vocal elements with the instrumental ensemble.
This engagement at the Village Vanguard was significant for Ross, as it marked a pivotal moment in his artistic journey, bridging his previous works with the thematic exploration in Gospel Music. The performance was well-received, with audiences appreciating the depth and cohesion of the ensemble, setting the stage for the album's release in early 2026.
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