“This is the most explicit and boldest expression of what I believe.”
— Joel Ross, DownBeat
WHAT TO EXPECT
Experience an extraordinary meeting of faith and jazz as acclaimed vibraphonist and composer Joel Ross brings his celebrated ensemble Good Vibes to Ravenscroft Hall for a special performance inspired by his Blue Note album, Gospel Music.
Deeply rooted in Ross’ Christian faith and his musical upbringing in the Black church in Chicago, Gospel Music is a sweeping musical interpretation of the biblical story. Across 17 compositions, Ross journeys from creation and the fall through redemption and salvation, exploring themes of sacrifice, grace, hope, love, and what it means to live in service to others.
Performed through Ross’ distinctive language of modern jazz, the music is intricate, expressive, and deeply spiritual—pairing the shimmering sound of the vibraphone with adventurous improvisation and the remarkable chemistry of Good Vibes.
Presented as part of Ravenscroft’s Christian Singer/Songwriter Series, this special evening invites audiences to experience a powerful musical expression of faith unlike anything else in the series.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Joel Ross is an acclaimed vibraphonist, composer, bandleader, and Blue Note recording artist who has emerged as one of the distinctive voices of his generation in jazz. Raised in Chicago and shaped by both the Black church and the jazz tradition, Ross has developed a deeply personal musical language built around melody, improvisation, collaboration, and faith.
His fifth Blue Note album, Gospel Music, brings those influences together in his most personal statement yet. Featuring an expanded lineup of his longtime ensemble Good Vibes, the album transforms Ross’ exploration of Scripture and Christian faith into a bold contemporary jazz work centered on a message of hope and love.
LISTEN ON SPOTIFY
FEATURED PERFORMERS
Joel Ross – Vibraphone
Josh Johnson – Alto Saxophone
Maria Grand – Tenor Saxophone
Jeremy Corren – Piano
Kanoa Mendenhall – Bass
Jeremy Dutton – Drums
RAVENSCROFT HALL PERFORMANCE INFORMATION