When vibraphonist Joel Ross received a commission from the Jazz Coalition at the beginning of the pandemic, he grounded his compositions in the music that was keeping him steady and hopeful—the old-time gospel music he grew up with. This continuing exploration undergirds Ross’s latest album on Blue Note Records, The Parable of the Poet. Released last month, the album features a full-bodied front line including trumpeter Marquis Hill, saxophonists Immanuel Wilkins and Maria Grand, and trombonist Kalia Vandever. One the track, “Prayer,” that front line intones a lush hymn, gradually building out to a moment of exquisite release.

This weekend, Ross and company will celebrate the release of the album at The Jazz Gallery with performances on Friday and Saturday. One can only guess how the large ensemble’s sound will bloom and envelop the intimate space.

Joel Ross celebrates the release of The Parable of the Poet (Blue Note) at The Jazz Gallery on Friday, May 13, and Saturday, May 14, 2022. The group features Mr. Ross on vibraphone, Gabrielle Garo on flute, Marquis Hill on trumpet, Immanuel Wilkins on alto saxophone, Sergio Tabanico on tenor saxophone, Kalia Vandever on trombone, Micah Thomas on piano, Rick Rosato on bass, and Craig Weinrib on drums. Sets are at 7:30 and 9:30 P.M. E.D.T. each night. $25 general admission ($10 for members), $35 reserved table seating ($20 for members) for each set. Purchase tickets here.