Sticks and Strings - the Joe Locke Quartet

Featuring Joe Locke (vibes), Jay Anderson (Bass), Jonathan Kreisberg (guitar), Joe LaBarbera (drums)

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Joe Locke, through his solid career as a premier jazz vibraphonist, has collaborated with pianists and saxophonists as front line mates, but never a guitarist. Jonathan Kreisberg, a talented newcomer, is Locke's foil for this very interesting set of post-'70s jazz fusion, original modern modal, and mainstream music.
By Michael G. Nastos  –  Read full review on AMG »

It’s always risky, with a track record like Locke’s, to describe his latest record as his best yet. Where Sticks and Strings will place when the book is closed on his discography many years in the future is uncertain. For now, he’s never sounded better, with vibrant writing and unrelentingly fine playing/interplay, further proof that Locke is amongst the finest vibraphonists on any scene.
By John Kelman  –  Read full review on AAJ »

Video

"Sword Of Whispers"

Live at JazzBaltica, July 2008
featuring Joe Locke (vibes), Jay Anderson (bass), Joe LaBarbera (drums), Jonathan Kreisberg (guitar) and special guest Rosario Giuliani (alto sax)

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Video

"The Rosario Material"

Live at JazzBaltica, July 2008
featuring Joe Locke (vibes), Jay Anderson (bass), Joe LaBarbera (drums), Jonathan Kreisberg (guitar) and special guest Rosario Giuliani (alto sax)

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Those new to Locke’s music will probably like this outing, but may want to begin elsewhere in his discography. For those already familiar with this longstanding mallet talent, this new direction could be an eye- and ear-opener.
By Dr. Jeff Monroe  –  Read full review on AAJ »
 

Sticks and Strings brings the talent of vibraphonist Joe Locke in a masterful collaboration with some of the expected veterans of jazz along with young guitarist Jonathan Kreisberg. Bassist Jay Anderson and drummer Joe LaBarbera establish the pulse of the record as they play with creativity and invention. But it is Kreisberg who left me with the largest smile as I heard his contributions and collaboration with Locke.
By Dr. Mike  –  Read full review on RadioIO »