Label: Shift Paradigm Records, 2026
Personnel - Zeju Zheng: guitar; Arnie Sainz: piano; Drew Gress: bass; Chidiebere Emmanuel: drums.
Emerging guitarist Zeju Zheng is based in New York, the city he relocated to in order to pursue a Master's Degree in Jazz Performance at New York University. Zheng, who studied under Peter Bernstein and Adam Rogers, releases his debut album, A Mind in Motion, which features six original compositions exploring themes of transition, memory, hope, and discovery. The pieces, written and recorded during Zheng's early years in New York, are performed by a quartet featuring pianist Arnie Sainz, seasoned bassist Drew Gress, and Nigerian-born drummer Chidiebere Emmanuel.
"53" is pure post-bop sophistication in 5/4, spreading fragments of Miles and Shorter's ESP years. Invigorating tonal and rhythmic shifts, a straightforward swinging drive, and expressively patterned and articulated solos from Zheng and Sainz make this an exciting opener. “Simple", whose 6/8 feel creates an exciting spark, emerged from Zheng's studies with eclectic guitarist Brad Shepik. His influence transpires in the guitarist's busy yet precise solo. Before that, Sainz excels in phrasing and mood, likely spurred by Gress's decisive bass figure at the bottom. Guitar and piano unisons revisit the theme, providing a tidy resolution.
Zheng showcases a balladic side on tunes like "Drain", whose sense of calmness inspires a notable solo from Gress, and "At The Corner", where the band plunges into a meditative melodic languor offered with a rich, rounded quality. The mellow tone speaks directly to the album's themes, and in both pieces, Gress and Emmanuel fulfill their foundational roles with trust.
Far from casting us in a dimmer light are the two final tracks: the nicely tempered "Little Song", and the harmonically rich "Waiting For You To Be Home", which frees the emotions while finding comfort in hope and light.
Rooted in tradition yet incorporating charismatic contemporary elements, the pieces in A Mind in Motion are rendered with lithe and spry interplay. Zheng is confirmed as a name to watch in the future.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - “53" ► 03 - Simple ► 06 - Waiting For You To Be Home