Immanuel Wilkins

Saxophonist and composer Immanuel Wilkins, a rising figure in contemporary jazz, honors us with several stops at New Morning. A precious opportunity to discover live one of the most distinctive voices of his generation.

Immanuel Wilkins, born in 1998 in Pennsylvania, quickly established himself as one of the most captivating and thoughtful alto saxophonists on today's jazz scene. Trained at Juilliard School, he attracted attention early through his technical mastery and expressive depth. His career is marked by collaborations with renowned artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Solange Knowles and Bob Dylan, demonstrating rare versatility and an ability to navigate between genres while maintaining a strong identity. Wilkins is also a prolific composer, whose works stand out for complex and emotional writing, drawing from a rich tradition while exploring resolutely modern sounds.

His first album, "Omega," released in 2020 on Blue Note Records, was hailed by critics as a major event, placing him immediately among artists to watch. This opus, driven by a tight quartet (Micah Thomas on piano, Daryl Johns on double bass and Kweku Sumbry on drums), explores spiritual and social themes with remarkable intensity. Wilkins deploys a playing that is both lyrical and powerful, characterized by sinuous phrasing and rich sonority. His approach to the alto saxophone is both rooted in the legacy of John Coltrane and Steve Coleman, while asserting an originality all his own, blending bold improvisation and memorable melodic structures.

Immanuel Wilkins's musical style is characterized by an elegant fusion of post-bop, free jazz and elements of sacred music. His compositions are often built around repetitive motifs and bold harmonic progressions, creating an atmosphere both meditative and energetic. On stage, the experience is renowned for being immersive and intense. Wilkins and his quartet are known for their telepathic interaction, transforming each concert into a collective exploration where improvisation serves a coherent musical narrative. The public can expect a performance where instrumental virtuosity combines with profound artistic sensitivity.

Immanuel Wilkins's appearance at New Morning is a must for jazz enthusiasts.