German-born, New York-based bassist and composer Jakob Dreyer unveils Roots and Things, his third and most personal album as a leader. After establishing his compositional voice on Songs, Hymns and Ballads Vol. 1 and 2, Dreyer presents a new sound, a new quartet and a refreshed commitment to swing.

For this project, Dreyer brings together an outstanding lineup: vibraphone rising star Sasha Berliner, acclaimed tenor saxophonist Tivon Pennicott, and dynamic drummer Kenn Salters. The album features 15 original compositions —urgent swingers, muscular grooves, lyrical ballads— punctuated by short interludes acting as palate cleansers throughout the listening journey. The result is a vivid, cohesive and deeply expressive musical statement.

Seeking a contrast from his previous piano-centered albums, Dreyer turned to the vibraphone, inspired in part by Dave Holland’s iconic recordings. Berliner, voted #1 Rising Star Vibraphonist by Downbeat at just 21, adds a shimmering, distinctive color to the ensemble. Pennicott and Salters complete the quartet with creativity, precision and a powerful sense of interplay.

Roots and Things celebrates the bassist’s identity —the root— while reflecting his evolution as a composer shaped by influences such as Paul Chambers, George Mraz, NHØP, Wayne Shorter, Bill Evans, Chick Corea and Kenny Wheeler. Since his arrival in New York in 2014, Dreyer has become a ubiquitous presence on the scene, and this album stands as his strongest artistic statement yet.

A vibrant, heartfelt and deeply rooted work from a singular voice in modern jazz.