Christian McBride embarks on his latest endeavour, Points of Light, the debut album of his newest ensemble Ursa Major. The eleven-time GRAMMY Award-winning bassist, composer and bandleader has entered into what he calls his “Art Blakely era,” gathering a talented group of jazz’s next generation. Making up Ursa Major includes saxophonist Nicole Glover, guitarist Ely Perlman, pianist Mike King and drummer Savannah Harris.
“This album is basically an extension of what we’ve been doing live for the last four years,” says McBride. “It’s been fun to watch a band develop and grow and progress when everything is so wide open. They don’t say no to anything, which is a wonderful thing.”
Produced by celebrated producer Terrace Martin, whose credits include Stevie Wonder, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg and Raphael Saadiq, Ursa Major gives listeners a glimpse the next generation of musicians shaping the future of jazz and beyond. “I enjoyed working with him on this new Ursa Major record,” said McBride in a social media post. “I knew his vibe would bring something special to the proceedings – and it did. He’s a true student of our music and the culture that breeds it.”
Two singles, a stunning rendition of George Duke’s “No Rhyme, No Reason” and “Cows”, were released leading up to the album release on October 30.
