John Patitucci, Spirit Fall Review

by Jeff Becker

John Patitucci’s latest release, Spirit Fall, marks an exciting new phase in his already illustrious career. Recorded on February 14, 2025, under Edition Records, this album finds the legendary bassist exploring the expansive, chord-less trio format with two of his most trusted collaborators: saxophonist Chris Potter and drummer Brian Blade. Together, they evoke the spirit of classic post-bop innovation while dynamically venturing into fresh contemporary territories. The album’s theme centers on exploration and spiritual renewal—a musical journey that mirrors Patitucci’s own lifelong quest for artistic growth.

The trio’s synergy is instantly apparent. Patitucci, revered for his mastery of acoustic and electric bass (including his signature six-string work), provides a robust and feel-focused foundation. Potter’s fluid improvisations on tenor, soprano, and even bass clarinet, blend creativity and impressive melodic development. Blade’s dynamic, understated drumming is colorful and supportive and moves the music with purpose and direction. Their deep musical rapport has been honed over decades of shared experiences in projects with icons like Wayne Shorter and Chick Corea. Their unified jazz language allows them to converse spontaneously with an interplay that melds the performance into an art form.

“Think Fast” is the energetic opener, this track bursts with a lively groove. Patitucci lays down a big-toned, driving bass line while Potter unleashes rapid, witty phrases on his saxophone. Blade’s dynamic drumming adds propulsion and provides the subtle interplay between bass and saxophone. Patitucci’s ability to move across the bass’ fingerboard is spectacular, making a powerful solo statement.

“Pole Star” is a developing composition with the trio forming three parts that speak to make a whole. Potter’s solo is built with elongated, emotive lines to create an energetic atmosphere; his rhythmic inventiveness and ample use of the blues make his ideas memorable and impactful.

“Deluge on 7th Ave” is a jazz-blues-soaked performance; this piece builds from an infectious funky groove into an extended exploration of the improvisational dialogue between the trio. The track showcases Patitucci’s ability to follow Potter’s lyrical harmonic explorations with clarity and purpose. Potter’s saxophone cascades in liquid patterns across the range of the horn as Blade’s agile rhythmic exchanges glue the time feel and pocket.

In the introspective “Thoughts and Dreams,” Patitucci explores the range and polyphony of his six-string electric bass. The interplay is gentle and builds as the composition consists of free-flowing phrases. Upon arriving at a steady contemporary jazz funk groove, Potter’s subtle motifs and Blade’s restrained expressive drumming create a fitting climax.

The title track embarks on a journey where each musician is given ample space to shine. Opening with Patitucci’s chordal ideas on the electric six-string, the compositions’ atmospheric depth unfolds. Potter’s soaring soprano saxophone lines and Blade’s drumming create an exhilarating collective and unity for musical exploration. Potter’s development of melodic arpeggios is impressive as he builds his ideas into erupting statements.

“Lipim,” meaning “hope” in a Cameroonian language, pulses with an afrobeat-inspired groove. Potter’s fearless sax solo twists through several harmonic detours, while Patitucci and Blade lay down a propulsive, infectious rhythm that underscores the track’s uplifting spirit. “Silent Prayer” is a ballad marked by Pattitucci’s warm chordal bass figure and an introspective opening melody before developing into a contemporary jazz groove. The growing textures from Potter’s tenor meld with Patitucci’s bass work, and Blade’s drumming gently punctuates the track’s spiritual ambiance. The musical reverence and subtle intensity the three musicians share are astonishing.

“House of Jade” is a tribute to Patitucci’s longtime mentor and collaborator, Wayne Shorter. This cover is rendered with the same creative innovation found throughout the album. The trio’s interplay on this track is especially nuanced, with each musician drawing on shared histories and deep musical understanding to reinterpret the classic tune in a fresh, contemporary light.

“Light in the Darkness” offers a classical overtone, as Potter’s bass clarinet and saxophone lead the rubato musical statements. This track offers a reflective interaction where the three musicians work together to form its concise structure and dynamic contrasts. The shared sonic clarity allows the trio to create musical statements that emerge spontaneously with striking clarity.

“Sonrisa” is the concluding exploration of the album. With its uplifting Latin energy, “Sonrisa” (Spanish for “smile”) blends contemporary jazz with Latin rhythms for a buoyant and joyful showcase of the trio’s ability to weave improvisations into coherent, celebratory tales.

John Patitucci’s influence on the jazz world is immeasurable. With decades of groundbreaking work—ranging from his tenure with Chick Corea to his pivotal role in Wayne Shorter’s quartet—he has consistently pushed the boundaries of bass performance. His decision to explore the chord-less trio format further underscores his creative artistic vision. The relationships he maintains with Potter and Blade are not merely professional; they are built on years of shared musical journeys and mutual respect. Their collective chemistry shines throughout Spirit Fall, making the album a showcase of technical brilliance through the heartfelt expression of their enduring musical bond.

In Spirit Fall, John Patitucci, Chris Potter, and Brian Blade deliver a record that is as intellectually stimulating as it is viscerally engaging. The album’s performances offer vibrant improvisations and emotional continuity as the trio communicates their art. With its mix of high-energy exchanges and meditative moments, Spirit Fall is a resounding affirmation of Patitucci’s ongoing contributions to modern jazz. Overall, Spirit Fall is an exceptional work that reaffirms the trio’s status as modern jazz luminaries, blending tradition with innovation in a truly memorable musical journey.