After a six-year recording hiatus, the Chicago-based Event Horizon Jazz Quartet returns with Consternation, an engaging collection of 13 original compositions that showcases the group’s chemistry, creative versatility, and adventurous approach to the tunes. Co-leaders Jim Kaczmarek on tenor and soprano saxophones and Scott Mertens on piano and keyboards share the composing responsibilities, contributing eight […]
After a six-year recording hiatus, the Chicago-based Event Horizon Jazz Quartet returns with Consternation, an engaging collection of 13 original compositions that showcases the group’s chemistry, creative versatility, and adventurous approach to the tunes. Co-leaders Jim Kaczmarek on tenor and soprano saxophones and Scott Mertens on piano and keyboards share the composing responsibilities, contributing eight and five compositions, respectively. The writing draws from post-bop traditions while incorporating elements of funk, Latin jazz, blues, and more exploratory musical textures. Joined by Donn DeSanto on acoustic bass and Rick Vitek on drums and percussion, the quartet moves comfortably between spirited, hard-swinging passages, intricate rhythmic arrangements, and reflective moments that reveal the emotional depth of their compositions. Special guests Victor Garcia on trumpet and Raphael Crawford on trombone add another dimension to the ensemble’s sound. With more than a decade of performing together, the collective shares an understanding that lets their individual voices emerge while maintaining a cohesive musical identity. The result is a thoughtfully crafted recording that balances sophisticated musicianship with accessibility, offering listeners a rewarding exploration of modern jazz from a quartet whose creative partnership continues to evolve.
