Label: Out of Your Head Records, 2026
Personnel - Adam O’Farrill: trumpet; Yvonne Rogers: piano, synth; Walter Stinson: bass; Russell Holzman: drums.
With Elephant, trumpeter and composer Adam O’Farrill reaches a new artistic peak in modern jazz. Leading an exceptional quartet of rising New York musicians—pianist Yvonne Rogers, bassist Walter Stinson, and drummer Russell Holzman—O’Farrill performs in top form throughout, drawing listeners into intricate rhythmic and harmonic frameworks shaped by remarkable breath control and unconventional phrasing.
The program unfolds imaginatively with “Curves and Convolutions”, whose initially mechanical yet fluid motion opens into a fearless, genre-blurring language that incorporates modern classical, new music, and avant-garde influences. O’Farrill delivers a striking solo over a septuple-meter passage before the piece resolves collectively into a grounded, exquisitely layered vamp.
Eclecticism remains a constant, and the subtle use of effects lends the music a distinctive character. “Eleanor’s Dance” introduces a retro electronica vibe anchored by a soulful beat; Ryuichi Sakamoto’s “Bibo No Aozora” emerges as a hopeful, open-minded infusion of ambient pop, soulful neo-classical, and thematic minimalism; while “Thank You Song” ventures into indie rock territory, highlighting O’Farrill’s expressionism and extraordinary range.
The quartet interlocks beautifully with fresh energy, and “Herkimer Diamond”—driven by Holzman’s kit intensity—moves from calm introspection to dynamic release, shaped by odd-metered cycles, a commanding trumpet solo, and Rogers’ synth outbursts. Inspired by Twin Peaks, “The Return” begins with a compelling drum statement before drifting through a rubato section and settling into a distinctive swing feel. O’Farrill’s nuanced control of attack, weight, and timing of phrasing are central, getting agile responses from Rogers and Holzman. The balladic, piano-driven passages here are filled with noble emotion.
The three-part Sea Tryptich further illustrates the group’s sensitivity to the composer’s vision. “Sea Tryptich Pt. 1 - Along the Malecon” surges forward with propulsive momentum; “Sea Tryptich Pt. 2 - The Three of Us, Floating” unfolds patiently through ethereal textures and extended techniques; and “Sea Tryptich Pt. 3 - Iris Murdoch” introduces a thrusting bass funkifying a scenario with interlocking trumpet and piano lines alongside firm, decisive drumming.
Making for an astonishing listen, O’Farrill’s Elephant is a sensational, revolutionary, and incredibly thoughtful work; a masterpiece of contemporary jazz that should not be missed.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Curves and Convolutions ► 03 - Sea Tryptich Pt. 2 - The Three of Us, Floating ► 04 - Sea Tryptich Pt. 3 - Iris Murdoch ► 07 - The Return