The Black Art Jazz Collective was founded in 2012 by Wayne Escoffery and Jeremy Pelt with the aim of honoring and preserving the art of some of the progenitors of jazz who inspired them, hired them and mentored them first hand. And while the band does pay homage to the greats of the past they also continue the evolving tradition of jazz with a body of work that remains firmly entrenched in the modernism of today. From the angular melody of Escoffery's "Involuntary Servitude," to the ingratiating groove of Pelt's "For the Kids," the ensemble extends the range and potential established by their illustrious predecessors with innovative original compositions, solos that run the gamut from thoughtful to virtuosic and a shared sense of purpose that is unique on today's jazz landscape.

Wayne Escoffery: tenor saxophone • Jeremy Pelt: trumpet • James Burton III: trombone • Victor Gould: piano • Rashaan Carter: bass • Mark Whitfield Jr.: drums

TRACKS: Ascension • Mr. Willis • Involuntary Servitude • Twin Towers • Words Needed • Tulsa • Iron Man • For the Kids • Birdie's Bounce

 Ascension

 Iron Man

 For the Kids

 Birdie's Bounce