Jazz Nights: Josh Lawrence Quartet

We're pleased to welcome back luminary trumpeter, Josh Lawrence to Vic's Jazz Loft with this stellar ensemble:

Josh Lawrence - trumpet 

Willie Morris - tenor saxophone 

Justin Sekelewski - bass 

Sarah Gooch - drums

With this stellar ensemble, get ready for an unforgettable evening of  jazz mastery and musical magic. 

Lawrence most recently led the charge in the realm of classic jazz, steering the quintessential ensemble of trumpet, tenor saxophone, piano, bass, and drums on his latest opus, "Measured Response." This marks his sixth album as a leader under the esteemed Posi-Tone label. Not one to dwell in the shadows, Lawrence has co-led two albums with the Fresh Cut Orchestra on Ropeadope, demonstrating his versatility across various jazz landscapes.

Lawrence's journey is peppered with accolades, boasting three Grammy nominations, notably for his collaboration with Orrin Evans' Captain Black Big Band. His musical odyssey has recently brought him full circle to his hometown of Philadelphia, where he now serves as the Manager of Jazz Education Programs at Ensemble Arts Philly, the dynamic presenting brand of the Philadelphia Orchestra.

"Measured Response" serves as a musical memoir, chronicling Lawrence's expedition from the serene landscapes of northern Michigan to the familiar streets of his native Philadelphia. Collaborating with seasoned Posi-Tone stalwarts such as tenorist Diego Rivera, pianist Art Hirahara, and drummer Rudy Royston, Lawrence orchestrates a symphony of emotion and introspection.

The album's narrative unfolds with poignant introspection, as exemplified in tracks like "Where Do We Go?" and "A Tragic Tango Comedy," where Lawrence's expressive solos mirror the tumultuous journey of finding solace amidst chaos. Yet, amidst the storm, there are moments of tranquility, such as the serene rendition of Charlie Haden's "Song for Whales," evoking a sense of peace and contemplation.

Themes of transition and transformation permeate the album, culminating in pieces like "Every Choice Comes with An Invoice" and "Stony Mountain Mist," where Lawrence navigates the complexities of change with blistering trumpet lines and soul-stirring saxophone solos. The spiritual essence of John Coltrane's "Wise One" serves as a guiding light, leading Lawrence back to his roots with Hirahara's reverential piano playing.

From celebratory anthems like "Flip on a Dip" to heartfelt tributes like "Prelude to a Farewell," Lawrence showcases the breadth of his artistry, weaving together a tapestry of sound that is as diverse as it is compelling. "Measured Response" stands as a testament to Lawrence's prowess as a musician and composer, encapsulating the essence of jazz with a controlled fervor that is nothing short of masterful.