Server Farm
Irabbagast, 2025
9/10
The extraordinary saxophonist and composer Jon Irabagon pulls off an exceptional project here, where a ten piece ensemble flesh out 5 detailed and expansive modern jazz tunes.
The adventurous “Colocaton” opens with Levy Lorenzo’s animated vibraphone, before Jon Irabagon’s bright sax enters the controlled chaos delivery of free jazz, and “Routers” follows with Dan Weiss’ skilled drumming that welcomes Peter Evans’ well timed trumpet amid much atypical rhythm.
“Singularities” occupies the middle spot and is both reserved and frisky via Miles Okazaki and Wendy Eisenberg’s flowing guitars that give it a rock feel, while “Graceful Exit” leads with a sci-fi appeal before finding intimate areas to reside in thanks to the soulful sax from Irabagon and Matt Mitchell’s sublime piano amid Mazz Swift’s stirring violin.
“Spy” finishes out the listen and is strong on ambience thanks to the Swift’s strategic vocals, the swirling wind and brass and Michael Formanek and Chris Lightcap’s bass prowess.
Yet another imaginative and exciting peek at Irabgon’s stylish version of jazz, every moment here is unpredictable and memorable.
Travels well with: The Jon Irabagon Trio + One- Dinner & Dancing; Brian Marsella/Jon Irabagon- Blue Hour