A few years ago, saxophonist Tony Malaby relocated to Boston from Jersey City to take a position as an associate professor at Berklee. In addition to his teaching duties, Malaby has assembled new bands, including a large ensemble called FIREBATH. The New England edition features a rotating cast of characters playing long-form improvisations. Here’s a recent performance in East Providence, Rhode Island:

Malaby still spends plenty of time in New York, keeping up regular performances at the likes of Barbés and Bar Bayeux. This weekend, Malaby returns to The Jazz Gallery with an NYC edition of FIREBATH. This lineup features a murderers’ row of improvisers, many of whom have been close Malaby collaborators for over 2 decades. Playing compositions both old and new, this edition of FIREBATH is sure to have that special mix of lived-in familiarity and a deep drive for the new.

Tony Malaby’s FIREBATH plays The Jazz Gallery on Saturday, June 15, 2024. The group features Mr. Malaby on saxophone, Dave Ballou on trumpet, Ben Monder on guitar, Angelica Sanchez on piano, Mark Helias on bass, and Allan Mednard on drums. Sets are at 7:30 and 9:30 P.M. E.D.T $35 general admission ($20 for members), $45 reserved cabaret seating ($30 for members), $20 livestream access ($5 for members) for each set. Purchase tickets here.