Jackson Potter, small things Review

The Sounds of New York: Jackson Potter’s small things

By Nolan DeBuke

Jackson Potter’s small things is an exciting sophomore release that showcases his musicianship and deepening roots in one of the world’s most demanding jazz landscapes—New York City. In this nine-song album, Potter and his ensemble explore the boundless possibilities of contemporary jazz with a flair that feels good and will engage the universal jazz fan. As an album, small things features Potter as an accomplished guitarist, arranger, and composer but as a growing force in the jazz guitar world, capable of bridging the traditional with contemporary forward-thinking.

From the very beginning, the album presents Potter as a guitarist in complete command of his instrument. His opening solo on “Trams” immediately demonstrates his well-honed ability to manipulate time and space within a solo. His soloing features a time-feel that’s infectious, yet intricately detailed. It’s a groove that is both anchored and liberated, suggesting his deep understanding of the role the rhythm section plays in shaping the harmonic landscape. The ensemble is just as tight and dynamic, especially the sax and trumpet combination of Roberts and Ridout, which breathes life into the composition’s forward motion.

The core quintet for small things comprises Alex Ridout on trumpet and flugelhorn, Troy Roberts on tenor saxophone, Hamish Smith on bass, Marcello Cardillo on drums, and Jackson Potter on guitar. Each musician’s voice contributes to the excellent listening experience, from Ridout’s warm, singing tone to Roberts’ dynamic phrasing and commanding presence. The rhythm section of Smith and Cardillo provides a strong yet flexible foundation, with Smith’s melodic basslines and Cardillo’s intricate drumming driving each of the album’s grooves. Guest appearances by Sophia Formella on vocals and Jaleel Shaw on alto saxophone bring a beautiful expression to the title piece, “small things.” The whole is always the focus of the ensemble’s interplay, and their cohesion can be felt in each of the tracks

A crucial element of small things is Potter’s nuanced use of rhythm. Tracks like “Mr. M” present a fluid sense of motion that never feels rushed or predictable. Potter’s rhythmic sense is elegant and accessible—he plays with time in ways that invite listeners to listen more closely, while never losing sight of the song’s overarching sense of the pocket. This is evident in his interaction with the rhythm section throughout the album; the interplay between Potter, Smith, and Cardillo is an example of how deeply the trio understands each other’s movements.

It is also worth noting the strong sense of narrative throughout the album. Whether on “Background Noise,” where the blues-hued horn parts bop through the harmonic and rhythmic pillars of the rhythm section, or on the more introspective “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes,” where Potter’s solo guitar intro creates a beautiful space before the rhythm section joins in, there’s a palpable sense that Potter is guiding the listener on a journey. These performances are not just exercises in technique but explorations in storytelling. The use of harmony, especially in “Sophia’s Waltz,” where Potter’s harmonies add contemporary colors to the melody, suggests a musician thinking in cinematic terms. The way the voices of each instrument interweave and counterpoint each other is a testament to Potter’s deep understanding of orchestration and arrangement.

Potter’s approach to “The Duke” is a prime example of how his knowledge of the history of jazz informs his jazz sensibilities. His sound and approach reflect that he has studied the masters; his ideas reimagine their passion, adding his own voice.

In conclusion, small things is an album for all jazz listeners; it is an invitation to enjoy Jackson Potter unfolding the influence of being involved within the jazz scene of the world’s most competitive and creatively charged cities, New York City. Potter and his ensemble will reward your listening attention with this release, one that blends fluid rhythms with the accessibility of lyricism and tradition with today’s energy.