More than fifty years after jazz trumpeter Don Ellis introduced JIMBO ROSS as “the only jazz violist in captivity,” the adventurous string player continues expanding his instrument’s possibilities. On BEYOND THE GROOVE, his third jazz recording since 2024, Ross blends his love of the jazz canon, a remarkable five-string electric viola and a deeply attuned quintet.

Beyond the Groove explores classic works by Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, Horace Silver, Bill Evans, Benny Golson, Miles Davis and John Lewis. Ross selects pieces that ignite his imagination and lead the ensemble toward bold, adventurous arrangements. Although the tracks are all instrumentals, they are played with such specific points of view that you could swear you hear the lyric with each note. It’s a phenomenal conversation these musicians are having.

It’s not often one describes a musical experience in terms of movement, but that is necessary with BEYOND THE GROOVE. It’s an album that comes with a whole lot of implied movement as it covers its territory. This album makes me want to host a party, if only as great excuse to put the music on and share it with friends that deserve to be reminded that exciting things are happening with classic material.

Musicians: Jimbo Ross (5-string viola); Stuart Elster (piano); Joe Gaeta (guitar); Peter Marshall (bass); Ron Wagner (drums)