Out Of/Into, Motion I Review

By Jeff Becker

Jazz continually reinvents itself as each new generation of musicians explores how the jazz cannon can form interesting new countermelodies between past and present jazz styles. Motion I is a compelling ensemble called Out Of/Into—an all-star collective featuring Gerald Clayton on piano, Immanuel Wilkins on alto sax, Joel Ross on vibraphone, Kendrick Scott on drums, and Matt Brewer on bass, crafting an album that is as respectful of Blue Note’s heritage as it is daring in its forward-looking contemporary jazz exploration.

From the very first moments of “Ofafrii,” the album establishes a project built on the dynamic dialogue of the ensemble. The piece opens with a surge of energy, immediately showcasing the ensemble’s ability to balance interplay with creating a setting where individual statements also take the lead. “Gabaldon’s Glide” then unfolds in a relaxed straight eight style, its smoky contours evoking the intimate spirit of classic post-bop while allowing a contemporary setting where each musician contributes expressive accompanying figures and solo expressions without ever disrupting the overall cohesion of the music.

“Radical” lives up to its title as a fearless exploration of post-bop swing territory. Ross’s fiery solo, coupled with Scott’s nuanced percussion, drives the piece with a contemporary jazz rhythmic landscape, seamlessly blending swing and straight eights with modernity. The gentle melancholy of “Second Day” offers a reflective counterpoint, where Wilkins’s soulful alto and Ross’s resonant vibes create a mood of beauty. Scott’s brush playing is excellent, as Brewer’s warm, resounding tones guide us through the harmony.

Midway through the album, “Aspiring to Normalcy” is a fine example of the dialogue-driven structure of this project. Brewer’s compositional touch invites the group into an evolving conversation—one that shifts effortlessly between tension and release as the ensemble challenges and enchants with its group improvisation. “Synchrony” amps up the intensity with a commanding contemporary jazz feel that cascades into a series of blistering solo statements by Wilkins and Ross. The manner in which Clayton interacts with the soloist showcases his capacity to support and interject raw energy. Finally, “Bird’s Luck” provides a lyrical conclusion; its subtle interactions with the ensemble members are a gentle reminder that even in the midst of experimental group exploration, there is space for clear lyricism.

Motion I is enjoyable in its organic genesis; the pieces evolved over nearly 40 live performances, allowing each composition to absorb the collective experience of countless nights of experimentation in interaction. This process imbues the album with a sense of spontaneity and natural growth—qualities that shine through on every track.

Ultimately, Motion I is a vibrant declaration that the spirit of adding new and contemporary explorations remains alive in jazz. Out Of/Into manages to connect jazz’s past while boldly carving out a new path forward of new rhythms and harmonic and melodic interactions, making this album an essential listen for anyone eager to experience the next frontier of contemporary jazz.