| Jazz |
2025 will begin with a series of albums, each as impressive as the last. Following Bill Moio’s excellent release, we now have this remarkable work from an outstanding composer and double bassist, surrounded by a dream team. A Brand New State is set to debut, featuring the extraordinary trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, whose trumpet engages in eloquent dialogue across Alex McLaughin’s eight original compositions—true urban jazz gems.
Intellectually stimulating and masterfully arranged, these pieces are elevated by Jeremy Siskind’s exquisite piano touch, brimming with joy in performing these works, and Tina Raymond’s infinitely subtle drumming, which underscores the poetic and novelistic clarity of this project.
Alex’s voice on the double bass reflects his profound jazz heritage and a meticulous study of the European classical repertoire. The counterpoint traditions of J.S. Bach and Ron Carter influence his foundations, as do the titans of the long 20th century—Stravinsky, Schoenberg, Scriabin, Mingus, and others. In this vein, stylistic comparisons have been drawn with bassist Dave Holland. Yet, upon listening, one realizes that Alex McLaughin is, without question, among the finest composers and arrangers of our time.
What is truly astounding is that this is McLaughin’s debut album. While many first efforts tend toward excess, this record is impeccably calibrated. Undoubtedly, McLaughin’s stage experiences have honed his clear artistic vision. Each musician on the album is a revelation, delivering performances of exceptional finesse, melodic beauty, and rhythmic brilliance.
Even those more inclined toward traditional jazz will find an inviting gateway here. Recent international tours have seen McLaughin collaborate with the USA Big Band, including a performance at the 39th International Jazz Plaza Festival in Santiago de Cuba. In the United States, he has appeared at events such as the Columbus Jazz Festival, the Penn State Summer Festival of the Arts, the Boalsburg People’s Choice Festival, the Erie Jazz Walk, and the Erie Art Museum Blues & Jazz Festival.
With this album, McLaughin offers a collection of vivid postcards, moments frozen in time, impressions from diverse places. Art is never born of chance—it emerges from the interplay of personal journeys and relentless dedication. While many artists reach admirable heights, few achieve true excellence. Alex McLaughin belongs to this latter category. It is no surprise, then, to find musicians of his caliber accompanying him on this record. I cannot tell you how many times I listened to it before writing this review. In a different vein, I would compare its impact to the latest album by our friend Médéric Collignon—equally breathtaking.
This praise is all the more sincere given the sheer number of albums we receive, granting us a clear perspective on the state of international jazz. As I write these words, 2025 still feels distant, yet this album unquestionably belongs in the “Essential” category already.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, November 21st 2024
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