The Muneer Nasser Quintet recently performed an evening of exceptional new jazz at Blues Alley from their latest album, “Blue House Session.” Frontman trumpeter and flugelhornist Nasser was accompanied by pianist, composer and educator Allyn Johnson, Elijah Easton on tenor sax, James King Jr. on bass, and John Lamkin III on drums.
Nasser’s knowledge of jazz history informed the quintet’s music. The set opened with “Caravan,” a jazz classic composed by Duke Ellington and Juan Tizol. The closer for this album’s release event was Miles Davis’ “All Blues” from the legendary album “Kind of Blue.”
Between two memorable jazz classics, the bandleader’s composition “Nasser’s Blues” displayed a beautiful blend of harmony between Easton on the tenor sax and Nasser on the trumpet. “Cancel Culture,” another Nasser composition, allowed the audience to hear and see the range of Lamkin’s drumming skills. It was as if there were two musicians on the drums at once. The total use and rapidness of the drum set were mesmerizing.
This writer’s favorite number of the evening was the jazz-infused interpretation of the reggae composition “Black Disciple ” by the group Burning Spear. The Nasser quintet previously performed their version at this year’s 20th Anniversary DC JazzFest. The rhythm flows naturally through their approach, taking its rightful place in a jazz environment.
Members of the Muneer Nasser Quintet are individual stars in their own right. During the evening, each was allowed to show their skills and commitment to the music and this new album.
Johnson is well-known throughout jazz as a brilliant pianist, composer, and arranger. He is the director of the jazz program and big band at the University of the District of Columbia.
King Jr.’s career spans more than 50 years. He has performed with many jazz greats, including Ella Fitzgerald, Gary Bartz, Elvin Jones, Stanley Turrentine, Sonny Fortune, Cedar Walton, Buck Hill, Frank Morgan, and more.
Easton is known as a powerhouse saxophonist. In addition to performing with the Nasser Quintet, he can be seen leading groups around the D.C. area.
Drummer Lamkin III is another outstanding musician who leads jazz groups around town.
With this talented group of musicians, audiences will enjoy “Blue House Session.”
For more information, go to muneernassermusic.com.