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Joel Ross | Essential albums and listening guide
Explore Joel Ross through KingMaker. Discover what to listen for and follow related styles to your next record.
Joel Ross
Meet the artist
A Chicago-born vibraphonist and composer whose Blue Note debut KingMaker appeared in 2019. His work combines the instrument's clear resonance with detailed writing and responsive group improvisation. He balances the clear attack of mallets with lingering metallic resonance.
Rapid melodic lines lead naturally to sustained chords supporting other players. Changes in density keep individual voices audible alongside saxophone and piano. Memorable themes sit within contemporary rhythms, while the vibraphone's clarity opens the texture. Composition and ensemble response matter as much as the instrument's distinctive sound.
Where to start listening
In KingMaker, compare the vibraphone's lingering resonance with Immanuel Wilkins's saxophone lines to hear the ensemble's depth.
2019KingMaker
Joel Ross
Joel Ross's Blue Note leader debut features his band Good Vibes. Clear vibraphone resonance and detailed ensemble writing offer an entrance into a new generation of New York jazz.
Open this album in the Atlas →
Years follow the Atlas catalogue. Recording dates, original release dates and digital reissue dates may differ.