American all-star formation around new tenor sax hero.

James Brandon Lewis tenor saxophone, Aruán Ortiz piano, Brad Jones doublebass, Chad Taylor drums

James Brandon Lewis has already received the highest praise from his role model Sonny Rollins, and would be a perfect addition to the tenor saxophone hall of fame. Albert Ayler’s spirituality and John Coltrane’s cosmic aspirations have inspired him, but the New York-based saxophonist mainly stays grounded in the present. With his quartet he continues his concept Molecular Systematic Music, where melodic cells develop into mesmerizing improvisations.

The James Brandon Lewis Quartet is a veritable supergroup with star players such as Aruán Ortiz, the Cuban-born pianist who played here in various formations. Double bassist Brad Jones made name in New York performing with Ornette Coleman, John Zorn and Marc Ribot, and collaborating with stars such as David Byrne and Elvis Costello. Drummer Chad Taylor is known from Chicago Underground Duo. The quartet recorded the studio album Code of Being and the live album Molecular Systematic Music Live that received a top rating of five stars in the authoritative magazine Downbeat.