The New York music scene benefits from the talents of David Gibson. As a sought-after trombonist, composer, arranger, educator, musical director, and bandleader, Gibson has collaborated with the likes of Jon Faddis, Roy Hargrove, Jimmy Heath, and James Moody. His arrangements and compositions have been used by several jazz heavyweights, and his notable work as a composer/arranger is exhibited on several recordings of Orrin Evans’ Grammy-nominated Captain Black Big Band, of which he’s a member. His passion for music began as a teen in Oklahoma and continues to galvanize his life as part of the supportive community of jazz artists based in and around New York City.
As indicated by the title of his Imani Records leader debut, the veteran trombonist has developed the repertoire on Fellowship whilst endeavoring “to create a sense of purpose” amidst the isolation of COVID-19.
Discussing the project, he shares, “Even prior to Covid, I was trying to restrict myself to playing with a quartet because I knew it would challenge me to carry the load. I wanted to see if I could approach the intensity and energy of the John Coltrane Quartet. We were starting to work things out when Covid hit. The quartet format opens it up for everyone to be more interpretive and gives me the license to respond to something in the moment. Like everyone, I was feeling rudderless, so I decided to play regular gigs at my apartment as an opportunity to press pause on that feeling and do something helpful. Then I decided to make it a project. My goal was to bring together my musical family — spend some time, work, have fun, and be a community.”
Gibson is joined by the boundless talents Davis Whitfield (piano), Kush Abadey (drums), and Joseph Lepore on bass to share an album that exudes just that. Full of upbeat tempos, slow thought-provoking melodies, unflawed unison passages, and arresting grooves, there is a release of fun, togetherness, and musical synergy. Gibson continues to exhibit his musicality with an album that captures his ability, consistency, and worth on the jazz terrain. It’s an enjoyable listen for the ears.
The album drops on January 15th, 2024
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