Jason Adasiewicz's Rolldown

If you listen closely, you can hear Jason Adasiewicz’s faint mumble mimicking the melody of his vibraphone solo on the title track of the new Varmint. It’s a time-honored technique—revealing that the best improvisers know exactly what they’re doing—and evidence of his rising stature as one of the foremost players on the instrument today.

On his second album leading the quintet Rolldown, the local standby’s mallet work glows over radiant postbop originals like “Green Grass” and “Punchbag,” illuminating a remarkable chemistry with drummer Frank Rosaly. Both percussionists lock in effortlessly with bassist Jason Roebke, and together their fierce swing anchors the flawless front line of cornetist Josh Berman and reedist Aram Shelton.

The 32-year-old Adasiewicz is fond of writing phrases that are catchy, yet rhythmically ambitious. As the combo faithfully carries out his clever compositions, it’s grown into one of the best working groups today.

Jason Adasiewicz’s Rolldown rolls into the Hungry Brain Sunday 13.

Download Varmint at iTunes | Buy it from Amazon.com

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