Spirituality in the music we love has always had a powerful place – from the field hollers captured by Alan Lomax, to the inspired messages from Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Sacred Concerts of Duke Ellington, the transition of John Coltrane’s playing, the composing and playing of Mary Lou Williams, the Abyssinian Mass from Wynton Marsalis, the new collection of hymns from Ron Carter and Dr. Ricky Dillard.
When he was younger, vibraphonist Joel Ross was thrilled to meet master vibist and marimbaist Bobby Hutcherson, who pointed to the sky and said, “play that.” For Ross, who grew up with music in a Chicago church, the advice was something he always had in his heart. When studying at The New School, in a class called Bach & Monk, he turned in his musical assignment, titled Bach ( God The Father in Eternity). It wasn’t just the admired harmonies, but rather, how he felt when he played beyond his instrument, with others of like mind.
Gospel Music, Ross’ 5th album for the Blue Note label, alongside his Good Vibes Sextet, is a collection of musical messages based on scripture from the Bible. More purpose that palette, it’s a revealing feeling of how the future doesn’t have to be harnessed by the past or present, but rather, through music, how we all should feel about ourselves and others.
WBGO’s “Daybreak” host Gary Walker spoke with Joel Ross about his latest release Gospel Music.
Gary and Joel talked about the influence of pianist Barry Harris on this album:
Joel Ross on influence of Barry Harris.mp4
Joel Ross talks to Gary Walker about his upcoming tour:
Joel Ross on busy tour.mp4
Hear a track each weekday morning @ 8:20AM, another feature made possible by the members of WBGO.
You can SEE Gary Walker’s entire conversation with Joel Ross below:
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