The Vigil And The Sleeping Giant
Adhyaropa, 2026
8/10
Listen The Vigil And The Sleeping Giant
The New York multi-instrumentalists, Ron Wilkins and Rebecca Patterson, bring along plenty of friends for these diverse jazz songs that are full of vivid storytelling.
“Covid Suite I.” opens with Ed Neumeister and Wilkins’ rich trombones amid Mike King’s frisky Rhodes, and “Covid Suite II.” follows with Aaron Heick’s animated soprano sax alongside bright trumpet from Alex Norris.
“Covid Suite IV.” arrives at the halfway point and showcases Jeff Barone’s warm guitar and Ray Marchica’s lively drumming, while “Sulk City” benefits from Seneca Black’s rich trumpet that complements the strong attention to atmosphere.
Further still, “Waltz Someday” blends the heartfelt brass with Carl Maraghi’s eloquent sax, and “Like A Brother” exits with Ron Blake’s tenor sax, Wilkins’ trombone and Mike King’s Rhodes for the colorful and soulful finish.
An album that took years to make, Wilkins’ near death experience with Covid in 2020 provides much of the storyline, as the outfit turn tragedy into authentic and timeless jazz textures.
Travels well with: Pete Mills- This Is Now; Shawn Purcell- Oblivity