News | Marsalis Music

The Branford Marsalis Quartet are skillful technicians, but more than that, they project distinct personalities.

REBECCA BLUNDELL, The Dominion Post

Branford Marsalis Quartet
Michael Fowler Centre, March 20

Branford Marsalis means serious jazz, right?

Well, I certainly expected the gig to have a serious tone, but it was more about joyful interaction between four musicians who love playing together letting the audience in on the fun. Read more »

Review: Branford Marsalis Quartet at Hamer Hall in Melbourne

Jessica Nicholas, The Age

BRANFORD Marsalis named his most recent recording Metamorphosen to signal the continuing musical evolution of his celebrated quartet over the past decade. The band’s first line-up change came just as Metamorphosen was released in early 2009, with 18-year-old drummer Justin Faulkner replacing the legendary Jeff ”Tain” Watts. Read more »

SFJAZZ Collective forges independent spirit

Jesse Hamlin, San Francisco Chronicle

“Just keep fooling around,” bassist Matt Penman advised drummer Eric Harland, “and I’ll look at you when it feels right.” Penman paused for a beat. “Then don’t ever deviate from that,” he deadpanned. Read more »

Branford blowing from home: a heartfelt and practical reaction to the devastation of New Orleans

Suzanna Clarke, The Courier Mail

WHEN jazz saxophonist Branford Marsalis and his friend Harry Connick Jr heard about the devastation of New Orleans in 2005, their reaction was heartfelt and practical. They organised the building of a Musicians’ Village.

“We have a great love for New Orleans. Without the musicians in the city, it would have been impossible for us to achieve any success,” says Marsalis, speaking from his home in Durham, North Carolina. Read more »