Jazz saxophonist Joshua Redman is set to release his highly anticipated second album on Blue Note, Words Fall Short, on June 20, 2025. The album features an exciting new chapter in Redman's career, with a collection of original compositions brought to life by his new quartet. The quartet—comprising pianist Paul Cornish, bassist Philip Norris, and drummer Nazir Ebo—was formed as a working band during the world tour for Redman’s 2023 label debut where are we. With steady performances on the road, Redman found inspiration and synergy within the band, leading to the creation of Words Fall Short.
A New Musical Direction for Redman
Words Fall Short marks a natural evolution for Redman, who has been a dominant force in jazz for decades. Unlike his previous album, which featured the collaboration with vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa, this new project embraces a more intimate, ensemble-based sound. The compositions for Words Fall Short were created during the pandemic, a time that brought about various emotions such as wistfulness, sadness, and resolve. These themes are especially present in the stunning opening track, “A Message To Unsend,” which captures a deep emotional resonance through Redman’s signature saxophone style.
In speaking about the album, Redman emphasizes that Words Fall Short was not a project he willed into being. “It’s impossible for me to will a project into being,” he shares. Instead, the album grew organically out of the chemistry formed during the quartet’s live performances. Words Fall Short features not just new compositions, but also special guest appearances by talented artists such as vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa, saxophonist Melissa Aldana, and trumpeter Skylar Tang.
The Quartet: A Perfect Balance of Youth and Experience
Redman’s new rhythm section is a standout feature of the album, bringing fresh energy to the compositions. In particular, bassist Philip Norris and drummer Nazir Ebo have made a significant impact on Redman, who praises their unique qualities. Norris, in particular, reminds Redman of the great Christian McBride with his ability to blend precision and creativity. Meanwhile, Ebo’s groove is flexible and dynamic, allowing him to navigate complex rhythms with ease while always serving the song.
By the summer of 2023, Paul Cornish completed the quartet’s transformation. Cornish brings a perfect balance of empathy and challenge to the group, helping the band push boundaries while keeping the music grounded in a natural flow. This synergy within the quartet is evident throughout Words Fall Short, as each member has their moment to shine while contributing to the collective sound.
Redman’s approach to bandleading remains consistent with his previous work—surrounding himself with virtuoso musicians who excel not just in their technique but also in their ability to collaborate and listen. The ensemble’s dynamic is one of spontaneity and sensitivity, creating a fluid yet cohesive musical experience.
The Tracklist: A Fusion of Emotion and Improvisation
The eight tracks on Words Fall Short each reflect different aspects of Redman’s emotional and creative journey. As a listener, you'll experience a rich tapestry of sounds, from heartfelt melodies to adventurous improvisations. Redman’s compositions, though rooted in personal experiences, are not fully explained, allowing the music to speak for itself and enabling listeners to find their own meaning in each piece.
The special guest appearances also add depth to the album, particularly the contributions from Melissa Aldana and Skylar Tang. Their collaborations bring additional layers of creativity to Redman’s already rich compositions.
Celebrate Words Fall Short at the Blue Note
To celebrate the release of Words Fall Short, Joshua Redman and his quartet will perform at the legendary Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City from June 20-22, 2025. The trio will bring their innovative sounds to the stage, showcasing the chemistry and collaboration that define this exciting new chapter in Redman’s career. In addition to the Blue Note performances, the quartet will be touring across the U.S. and Europe this summer, so be sure to check out their schedule and catch them live.
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