Branford Marsalis prepares for his first Blue Note debut with new album ‘Belonging’
Renowned saxophonist Branford Marsalis is poised to mark his inaugural release with Blue Note Records through the much-anticipated album “Belonging,” slated for launch on March 28th. This album represents a full-length reimagining of Keith Jarrett’s iconic 1974 ECM release of the same title. Featured alongside Marsalis are his esteemed quartet members Joey Calderazzo on piano, Eric Revis on bass, and Justin Faulkner on drums, all of whom have garnered critical acclaim for their musical prowess. The leading single from the album, “Spiral Dance,” is already available for listeners to enjoy.
Reflecting on the origins of “Belonging,” Marsalis candidly admits that the album was not within his musical scope during its initial release in 1974. At that time, he was immersed in R&B as a high school freshman, unaware of Jarrett’s groundbreaking work. It was only years later, while sharing a moment with pianist Kenny Kirkland in the 1980s, that Marsalis was introduced to the mesmerizing sounds of Jarrett’s European Quartet. The profound impact of Jarrett’s discography on Marsalis was immediate, leading him to acquire every recording by the legendary band.
The genesis of “Belonging” within Marsalis’s repertoire traces back to the inclusion of the album track “The Windup” on his 2019 release, “The Secret Between the Shadow and the Soul.” It was during this recording session that bassist Eric Revis suggested a complete rendition of “Belonging” by the quartet, laying the foundation for this ambitious undertaking. Approaching the material with a nuanced lens, Marsalis underscores the importance of balance in their interpretation. While acknowledging reverential nods to Jarrett’s original performances, Marsalis emphasizes his group’s commitment to embody the album’s cohesive musical narrative.
As the quartet prepares for an extensive tour spanning North America and Europe, fans eagerly anticipate experiencing the magic of “Belonging” live. Marsalis’s official website will provide further details on tour dates and venues for audiences seeking to immerse themselves in a captivating musical journey. “Belonging” stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Keith Jarrett’s seminal work and represents a new chapter in Branford Marsalis’s illustrious career on the iconic Blue Note Records label.