Joey Alexander

“seemingly limitless technique… dazzling” – NPR

On his seventh album, 2023’s Continuance, Indonesia-born pianist, composer, and bandleader Joey Alexander has far surpassed his earlier incarnations. Here, he’s now comfortable in his new identity as a composer-pianist of fertile imagination and emotional depth.

Joey has been widely regarded as one of the most highly skilled pianists and thoughtful improvisers in jazz. However, Continuance presents him primarily as a composer of haunting chamber jazz. Then, he leads an ensemble with its own point of view. Continuance shows his writing and playing have continued to deepen.

Joey cites inspirations from outside the jazz world leading to his growth as a composer. Further, he mentions Ennio Morricone, John Mayer, Burt Bacharach, even Bonnie Raitt.

“I learn from all these artists about the different genres I can bring into my music,” Joey says. “I still love hearing jazz, of course. But all these influences help me to be a better composer. I’m always thinking ‘How can I connect with a broader audience.’ In my pursuit of being a better improviser and composer, I always strive to bring fresh, creative ideas to the table, both melodically and harmonically.” 

Continuance finds him once again concentrating on his own tunes. It is also the first album he has recorded with his regular touring trio. There, Kris Funn on upright bass and John Davis on drums join Alexander. 

Here, the trio’s road-tested chops show. The album displays effortless synchrony, near-telepathic communication, and the grace with which they support each other’s musical expression. The result is anything but a soloist doing a star turn, backed by a rhythm section. Rather, it’s a finely calibrated machine, a crack ensemble stretching out.

Recommended for fans of McCoy Tyner, Ahmad Jamal, Brad Mehldau and Keith Jarrett.

LEARN MORE: https://joeyalexandermusic.today/

📸: Roy Cox