Label: Blue Note Records, 2025
Personnel - Gerald Clayton: piano, Rhodes, organ, synth, vocals; Joel Ross: vibraphone; Elena Pinderhughes: flutes; Marquis Hill: trumpet; Kendrick Scott: drums; Kassa Overall: post-production, percussion, processing.
In his new album of originals, pianist and composer Gerald Clayton—who has performed with Charles Lloyd, Bill Frisell, and Roy Hargrove—leads a fresh ensemble filled with groove-savvy players and melodic innovators. Among them are vibraphonist Joel Ross, flutist Elena Pinderhughes, and trumpeter Marquis Hill.
According to Clayton, Ones & Twos is an experiment—a concept inspired by the art of turntablism. The tracks on each side of the album are meant to interlock, forming a completely new whole when overlaid—a nod to DJ transitions. Clayton’s curiosity about the effect of layering two strong melodies with potentially related harmonies results in a diverse, contemporary album that finds its own vision.
With a distinct tinge of neo-soul and R&B, “Angels Speak” flutters with an engaging melody set against rich harmonies and vamping sections delivered with clarity and warmth. Conversely, “Cinnamon Sugar” feels rooted in Brazilian choro, while “How Much Love?” brings forth a straightforward riff.
“Count M” rides a unique hip-hop-inflected groove with a modern sensibility, while the introspective “Lovingly”—featuring a poignant turn by trumpeter Marquis Hill in its closing section—leans into a more delicate mood. Yet it doesn’t quite land for me. More compelling is “Just Above”, a lyrical duet for flute and piano, full of dulcet motifs and a satisfying melancholic undertone.
The danceable “Rush” benefits from Kassa Overall’s post-production, flowing with an easygoing vibe and a trippy rhythm that later suggests Brazilian cadences. More energetic, “For Peace” thrives with radiant synth beams and rock solid drumming, courtesy of Kendrick Scott. Still, one of the standout tracks is “More Always”, where an eight-voice choir—including lauded vocalist Michael Mayo—joins the song’s steady march and assured unison lines. The album closes unexcitingly with the weightless floating of “Endless Tubes”.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Angel Speaks ► 09 - For Peace ► 10 - More Always