This six song album by Jon Batiste is the second release to his residency last year at the famed Village Vanguard, and it’s bubbling over with excitement and enthusiasm. Batiste’s musical and life worldview is reflected in the liner notes that quote St. Irenaeus as writing “The glory of God is a human being fully alive.” Batiste’s gig with his large ensemble is a joyful noise unto God, with Batiste preaching from his keyboards.
He goes solo on an enthusiastic Professor Longhair-inspired boogie of “Kenner” with hands clapping and fingers striding. The rhythm team of Joe Saylor/dr, Nehah Santos/perc and Phil Kuehn/b get funky with the leader on “BLACCK” while features a hip guitar solo by Louis Cato, while the gospel groove is pounded on the upbeat “Prince” and the R&B is “Birthe.” A dedication to recently departed Roy Hargrove includes his voice on section work of Tivon Pennicott/ts, Patrick Bartley/as, Giveton Gein/tp and Jon Lampley/tb on “Soulful” and the celebratory “ORDR” while Batiste preaches from the pulpit on the Crescent City pulse of “PWWR.” Any residencies in LA planned?