Nick Finzer - Legacy (2024) [Hi-Res]

NEW YORK, N.Y. - The year 2024 marks something special for many jazz musicians and trombonists alike: the centennial of JJ Johnson, one of the genre’s profound luminaries and all-time most influential trombonists. In honor of this magnanimous moment in jazz history, trombonist, composer, educator, and Outside in Music label CEO Nick Finzer has programmed a series of festivities over the course of the year. Ranging from masterclasses and seminars to tours and concerts with modern trombone masters, these celebrations will culminate in the release of Finzer’s newest album, Legacy on April 5th, 2024. The album reunited Johnson’s own legendary band members Renee Rosnes (piano), Rufus Reid (bass), and Lewis Nash (drums) in the Rudy Van Gelder studios in Englewood, NJ - the very same location in which Johnson himself recorded many of his classic albums. Featuring a host of arrangements of Johnson’s compositions, pieces from Johnson’s regular songbook, and Finzer’s own originals that exemplify Johnson’s distinctive style, Legacy is not merely a tribute album, but stands as a testament to the ever-present and transformative influence Johnson still has today.