Jamison

This is the debut recording from the 2012 winner of the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition. The recording is a brilliant presentation of Ross' artistry, not only showcasing his prowess as a jazz musician who commands the drums, but also as a gifted composer, arranger and more pointedly, a singer. Ross sings on ten of the disc's 12 tracks. Infused with jazz, blues, gospel and genuine soul, the album filters music from multiple eras through a contemporary approach, refreshing material such as Muddy Waters' 1977 classic, "Deep Down in Florida," an homage to Grady Tate with Gary McFarland, Louis Savary's soul-jazz classic, "Sack Full of Dreams," and Eddie Harris and Les McCann's 1971 hit, "Set Us Free." He also honors the great Carmen Lundy with an earnest version of her 1994 composition, "These Things You Are to Me." Mixed in with these classics are some of Ross' own compositions including "Emotions," a lyrical narration of Ross' personal perspective on the journey of life, supported by a danceable rhythm and convicting melody.