Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet - In a World of Mallets

New Orleans jazz great Jason Marsalis has returned as a band leader and vibraphonist on his rollicking album, 'In a World of Mallets'. Marsalis, the brother of Wynton, Delfeayo and Branford Marsalis, has been touring with Bela Fleck and Marcus Roberts after spending over a decade as a staple on the New Orleans jazz scene.

Recorded in New Orleans, 'In a World of Mallets' is Marsalis' third album on Basin Street Records, and his first with his current band, the Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet. With each passing year Jason Marsalis continues to grow and develop as both a composer and performer. With a fire in his heart and a passion for the music, his will to swing has never been more resolute. The maturity of this young lion and the command he possesses over his instrument is clearly evident on 'In a World of Mallets'. Marsalis steps behind marimba, glockenspiel, tubular bells, vibraphone, and xylophone with a healthy mix of original compositions, work by his up-and-coming band-members, and dedications to former jazz greats.

Personnel: Jason Marsalis (vibes), Austin Johnson (piano), Will Goble (bass), Dave Potter (drums)

Marsalis is an immensely talented player with lively improvisation skills and a band which is more than capable of leaping into these articulate, wry, and adventurous compositions. - All Music Guide

Just as his drumming is steeped in both modern and New Orleans rhythmic styles, his vibes playing draws on the rich tradition of the instrument...with commendably ardent swing. - Jazz Times