Hillside Jazz (Present Tense): Joel Ross Good Vibes

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Hillside Jazz (Present Tense): Joel Ross Good Vibes

Joel Ross. Photo: courtesy Blue Note Records.

“Ross’ playing erupts through the layers of lush arrangements like consistent currents of electricity, high-powered and full of luminous energy” —DownBeat

Still in his mid-20s, rhythmically ecstatic vibraphonist-composer Joel Ross is known for his work with leading new jazz figures Makaya McCraven, Ambrose Akinmusire, Nicolle Mitchell, Kassa Overall, and Marquis Hill. NPR calls him “the breakout jazz star of the moment … partly on the basis of this volatile spark and its cathartic release.” Establishing his own distinctive single mallet approach to the vibes, full of clarity and drive, Ross just released his second Blue Note release Who Are You? to widespread critical acclaim. His Good Vibes quintet features pianist Jeremy Corren, bassist Or Bareket, drummer Jeremy Dutton, and sax wunderkind Immanuel Wilkins. Each artist advances the spirit of risk-taking while maintaining Ross’s vision for telling compelling musical stories.

Enjoy a complimentary gift to make the performance more comfortable, courtesy of Walker Premier Partner, Chase, on July 2 and August 6. Quantities are limited.

Next generation jazz visionaries make their Twin Cities debuts and chart new pathways forward. They each capture the virtuosity, passion, and commitment to racial and social justice that has driven the jazz vanguard for decades. Offering the sound of tomorrow through some of the most vital voices of today in a free outdoor summer concert series on the beautiful Walker hillside.

Mask wearing is recommended for visitors who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Lawn furniture and smoking are not allowed. There will be food trucks, a water bottle refill station, and a handwashing station at the bottom of the hill.

Tickets are no longer required for this program. You’re welcome to simply show up.

There will be two accessible seating spaces on level grassy areas on the hillside—one at the bottom of the hill and one halfway up the hill. These spaces are next to a paved path and will have chairs for people who need them. Staff members stationed around the hillside will be able to assist with accessible seating.

To request accommodations for this program or for more information about accessibility, call 612-375-7564 or email access@walkerart.org.

For more information about accessibility at the Walker, visit our Access page.