This Thursday, vibraphonist Jalen Baker makes his Jazz Gallery debut. A native of Houston, Baker began focusing on vibraphone while a student at the city’s revered High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. In an interview with journal textura, Baker describes his journey to the instrument:

I played jazz drums throughout middle school and a little bit into high school, but it wasn't until I heard Stefon Harris's Urbanus album that I decided to start playing jazz vibes. That was the first time I'd heard the instrument in a contemporary setting, and I was super inspired by it. Switching to vibes also gave me a chance to play with my friends, who are much better drum set players than me!

I think players like Harris, Warren Wolf, and Joe Locke made playing the instrument ‘cool.' All of those guys have such powerful voices, and that I think really resonates with this current generation of musicians.

After studying at Columbia College in Chicago and Florida State University, Baker moved back to Houston, touring with the likes of Ulysses Owens Jr. and putting together a working quartet. Baker and his group released their debut album This is Me, This is Us in September, featuring a set of original compositions (and a choice Stevie Wonder cover) augmented with string quartet and guest trumpeter Giveton Gelin.

Baker’s compositions aren’t afraid to confront heavy subject matters. “Obey/Disobey” comes from a professor’s prompt about whether you personally would obey an unjust law, while “Don’t Shoot” probes Baker’s own emotions in the aftermath of MIchael Brown’s murder. Throughout the record, the churn of Baker’s forceful articulation propels the music through these dark spaces, seeking resolution.

For his debut at the Gallery, Baker will be joined by his regular collaborators—pianist Paul Cornish, bassist Gabriel Godoy, and drummer Gavin Moolchan.

The Jalen Baker Quartet plays The Jazz Gallery on Thursday, March 17, 2022. The group features Mr. Baker on vibraphone, Paul Cornish on piano, Gabriel Godoy on bass, and Gavin Moolchan on drums. Sets are at 7:30 and 9:30 P.M. E.D.T. $!5 general admission (FREE for members), $25 reserved table seating ($10 for members) for each set. Purchase tickets here.