Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
In Memoriam: James Blood Ulmer, 1940–2026
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
The Hope I Hold, by Ryan Keberle & Catharis, is due out June 28.
(Photo: Amanda Gentile/ADG Photography)Ryan Keberle’s deep into the investigation of sundry musics, working to hint at sounds pouring out of speakers across the world, and outlining his findings with the honeyed tone of his trombone.
The Hope I Hold, Keberle’s fourth album with his quintet Catharsis, is due out June 28 on Dave Douglas’ Greenleaf Music. The album, like so much music today, centers on the bandleader’s understanding of the States’ political entrenchment. The result, though, is a beautiful and evocative sketch of where his group currently stands: Camila Meza’s voice and guitar figuring heavily into the music’s DNA. And on “Peering,” which debuts here, bassist Jorge Roeder earns his first songwriting credit amid a shrunk down Catharsis subgroup of just guitar, bass and trombone that wends its way through a delicate and somber number.
“The repertoire has really taken on a life of its own,” Keberle said in a press release. “From a compositional standpoint, this really has become a collective project. And for someone who’s been leading bands for a long time now, that’s a really fun thing to be a part of.”
Saxophonist Scott Robinson and drummer Eric Doob also contribute to the recording.
For additional information about Keberle’s work, as well as a list of upcoming live dates, visit the bandleader’s website. DB
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
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