4. Johnathan Blake Homeward Bound (Blue Note)

Blake’s fourth recording as a leader is his most “inside.” “Inside” is relative. Blake’s quintet contains badasses only. Alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins, vibraphonist Joel Ross, and pianist David Virelles operate on jazz’s leading edge. When they come inside, they bring their creative daring with them. Drummer Blake and bassist Dezron Douglas further incite them. The approachable acoustic music of Homeward Bound is electric with the sense that anything might happen. THOMAS CONRAD

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