MSU Associate Professor of Jazz Trombone Michael Dease has released his latest recording, Reaching Out, which brings together a diverse group of musicians both seasoned and new.  It is an artful conglomeration of talent featuring saxophonists Walt Weiskopf and Ralph Bowen, vibraphonist Behn Gillece, bassist Peter Brendler, pianist Luther Allison, and drummer Zach Adleman. At the time of recording, Allison and Adleman are current MSU Jazz Studies students!

Dease’s skill at leading the band keeps the music steady and straightforward while the group takes on an exciting program of new compositions and creative arrangements of some familiar melodies. It is another enjoyably swinging affair from Dease, firmly grounded in both tradition and exploration from start to finish. As an artist, Dease continues reaching higher, and his new album delivers a compelling and engaging message. 

“Dease clearly demonstrates why he’s met the high level of musicality demanded by discerning bandleaders like Christian McBride and Jimmy Heath,” says Gary Walker, WBGO radio host and music director.

Reaching Out is Dease’s fifth album with Posi-Tone Records, and it has garnered a lot of attention in the jazz world. In early 2018, the album was featured on Jazz Week’s ten top ten chart for three weeks in a row.

Dease’s award winning musicality continues to capture audiences with its sweet idealistic manner.  With almost two decades of performance experience, he is no stranger to leading an ensemble. As an arranger he beautifully brings together diverse sounds, blending them into one.  

All About Jazz’s Mark Corroto writes, “We need more musicians like Michael Dease who, to quote Art Blakey, play jazz that ‘washes away the dust of everyday life.’ With Reaching Out (Dease) doubles down on the joy of music making.”