Passage showcases Blake's compositional voice, moving beyond his drumming prowess to explore nuanced ensemble writing and arrangements.
- The album was recorded at Brooklyn Recording Studio in Brooklyn, New York.
- It was produced by Blake himself, alongside long-time collaborator and Blue Note Records executive, Henry R. Thomas.
- The album features guest appearances from saxophonist Joel Frahm and pianist Jean-Michel Pilc.
Johnathan Blake is a drummer and composer from Philadelphia, known for his prolific work in contemporary jazz. He has released over a dozen albums as a leader and appeared on many more as a sideman since the early 2000s. Passage, released in 2023, finds Blake continuing his exploration of modern jazz idioms with a focus on intricate rhythms and melodic improvisation. This album arrived as Blake was solidifying his reputation as one of the most in-demand artists on the contemporary jazz scene.
Tracklist
