Brian Lynch, Charles McPherson - Torch Bearers (2026) [Hi-Res]

The album Torch Bearers marks the inaugural studio collaboration between Brian Lynch and Charles McPherson, documenting an artistic relationship spanning over four decades. Recorded at Van Gelder Studios, the project serves as a tribute to the pedagogical and musical influence of Barry Harris, featuring a repertoire that balances original compositions with bebop standards by Harris and Dizzy Gillespie. Supported by an elite ensemble and vocalist Samara Joy, the recording highlights the seamless synergy between veteran masters and contemporary talents. Ultimately, the work stands as a definitive statement on intergenerational continuity within the jazz tradition.

Personnel:

Brian Lynch - trumpet (flugelhorn on “The Joy Of Love” and “7-24”)
Charles McPherson - alto sax (featured artist)
Samara Joy - vocal (tracks 2 and 6)
Orrin Evans - piano (tracks 1,2,4, and 9)
Rob Schneiderman - piano (tracks 3,5,7, and 8)
Luis Perdomo - piano (track 6)
Boris Kozlov - bass
Kyle Swan - drums (all tracks except 6)
Ulysses Owens - drums (track 6)

Tracklist:
1-1 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - Luck of the Draw [6:02]
1-2 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson;Samara Joy - The Joy of Love [6:12]
1-3 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - Kyle's Dilemma [6:09]
1-4 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - 7-24 [5:21]
1-5 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - Luminescence [5:36]
1-6 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - Pursuit of a Dream [5:31]
1-7 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - The Juggler [6:04]
1-8 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - But Beautiful [10:51]
1-9 Brian Lynch;Charles McPherson - Blue n' boogie [6:42]