Jonathan Barber and Vision Ahead IN MOTION

July 28, 2024

JONATHAN BARBER & VISION AHEAD

IN MOTION

Vision Ahead Music

Jonathan Barber, drums/composer; Andrew Renfroe, guitar; Taber Gable, piano; Matt Dwonszyk, bass; Matt Knoegel, tenor saxophone.

Jonathan Barber’s ensemble is called ‘Vision Ahead.’ This is their fourth studio album and showcases eight of Barber’s original compositions and two reprises. Titled “In Motion,” this album is meant to chart the drummer’s personal journey and artistic evolution.

Not so long ago, Barber was recognized by Modern Drummer Magazine as their #1 Up and Coming Drummer. I am always interested in hearing compositions written by drummers. A lot of the time, they are rhythmic, but pay little attention to anything else but a groove. This time, the first thing I noticed about Barber is his warm marriage to melody. Beginning with a tune he calls “Radar,” Jonathan Barber’s powerhouse drums lead the way. The melody is prominent, and his arrangement includes unexpected breaks that build the tension. This is modern jazz with a taste of contemporary music mixed into his arrangement. The drums and the musical brakes punctuate this production piece.

A song called “Giving” follows, with Andrew Renfroe’s guitar singing unison with Matt Knoegel’s tenor saxophone. Together, they introduce the melody.

The title tune “In Motion” is another piece with a strong melody and plush with creative drum licks that propel the song forward. Clearly, Barber has his own style of both arranging and composing. That certainly distinguishes him in a positive way. His contemporary, and very modern jazz compositions are unique and often complex. This title tune definitely paints a picture for our ears. It’s full of motion and energy. His song called “When Love Calls” settles the mood down to a slower pace. He has two counter melodies playing simultaneously. One by Renfroe on guitar, another by the piano of Taber Gable that slides chords beneath, setting up a groove with the rhythm section, and creating an almost descant to what the lead guitar is singing. It’s very sweet and harmonic. On the other hand, a composition called “Liberty” grabs my attention and won’t let it go. It has one of those beats that intoxicates and demands that my toes tap.

This album is sure to captivate listeners. It solidified Barber’s talent as a composer and supports his reputation as one of the new, youthful, percussive lions of jazz.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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