Reaching Out by Michael Dease

Trombonist Michael Dease brings together a new group of hands on this 2018 release and helps engage his audience by “Reaching Out.” Assembling a diverse group of voices, both young and old, Dease succeeds in creating an artful conglomeration of supporting talent featuring saxophonists Walt Weiskopf and Ralph Bowen, vibraphonist Behn Gillece, bassist Peter Brendler, pianist Luther Allison, and drummer Zach Adleman. Dease’s skillful band leading keeps the music steadily straight forward as the group undertakes an exciting program of new compositions and intelligent arrangements of some new and familiar melodies. With yet another enjoyably swinging affair firmly grounded in both tradition and exploration from start to finish, Dease continues reaching ever higher for the blue skies of a brighter tomorrow. Listeners will certainly agree that Dease’s new album succeeds in delivering a compelling and engaging message that encourages everyone to continue “Reaching Out.”

Michael Dease is one of the world's eminent trombonists, lending his versatile sound and signature improvisations to over 200 recordings and many diverse groups. Dease is a multi-year winner of Downbeat Magazine’s Critic's Poll for Jazz Trombonist and a two-time Grammy award winner.