New Survival of the Fittest Review from Japan

The Cover of The Walkers

I am thrilled to read a review of my newest album, Survival of the Fittest, today from Japan. This was published in The Walkers, a Japanese Jazz Magazine. Thank you, Masayuki Koito for reviewing my record.

Text of the review in Japanese.

Here' is the review translated into English.

Saxophonist Jordan VanHemert's 5th album

The newest release from Jordan VanHemert not only showcases how technically gifted he is on the saxophone but also showcases the depth of his personal life. He was adopted from South Korea and grew up in the US and thinks of music as a healing power, a joy, and an importance of being connected with one another. He captured these in this album. You can say this album is the most introspective record he has ever made. He has a powerful band that supports him such as Terrell Stafford, Michael Dease, Helen Sung, and Lewis Nash. We cannot forget the role of the bassist, Rodney Whitaker, who had a warm and strong sound as if he was hugging the entire band with his sound - his contribution is remarkable. Sparkling phrases with silences in between will catch the audience's attention. Here is the musical expression of what it means to be alive.

-Masayuki Koito

Translated by Miki Yamanaka.

I love this review — but I especially love that Rodney Whitaker gets a well-deserved shoutout for his inimitable bass playing.