Mike Bruzzese - Another Space (2026)

Tracklist

01. The Elements (feat. Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)
02. Antibes (feat. Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)
03. Blues 975 (feat. Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)
04. Anomaly (feat. Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)
05. Lush Life (feat. Laura Anglade, Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)
06. Hillcrest (feat. Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)
07. Light Bulb (feat. Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)
08. Generalife (feat. Ben Solomon, Mike De Masi & Adam Arruda)

On Another Space, guitarist Mike Bruzzese delivers a polished, deeply collaborative sophomore outing that consistently engages. Released via Bent River Records, the album plays to contemporary jazz’s familiar strengths: strong interplay, thoughtful composition, and a clear sense of ensemble identity.

Bruzzese surrounds himself with a formidable group, and it shows. Tenor saxophonist Ben Solomon is a constant highlight, bringing a muscular yet lyrical voice shaped by time spent alongside figures like Chick Corea. His presence elevates several tracks, particularly the fiery “Anomaly,” where the band stretches into more adventurous territory. Drummer Adam Arruda adds propulsion and clarity, while bassist Mike De Masi provides a warm, grounding centre.

The record opens with “The Elements,” an expansive piece that sets the tone with cinematic ambition, inspired by a volcanic landscape. From there, Bruzzese balances personal storytelling with broader jazz traditions. “Antibes” carries a breezy, reflective quality, nodding to the historic jazz lineage of the French coastal town. At the same time, “Blues 975” offers a heartfelt tribute to McCoy Tyner, full of modal flourishes and rhythmic confidence.

Laura Anglade provides the vocals for “Lush Life”. Her performance brings a tonal shift to the record’s largely instrumental palette. Elsewhere, “Hillcrest” stands out for its emotional weight, weaving a sombre narrative into its structure, while “Lightbulb” injects a brighter, more optimistic energy, with subtle nods to John Coltrane.

Despite its many strengths, Another Space occasionally feels like it’s circling greatness rather than fully claiming it. The musicianship is undeniable, and the compositions are consistently engaging, but there are moments where the album’s familiarity plays it just a touch too safe. Even its more explosive tracks, like “Anomaly” or “Generalife”, hint at a riskier, more boundary-pushing direction that never quite dominates the record.

Still, this is a rewarding listen that reveals its depths with each spin. Bruzzese’s emphasis on collective expression and deep listening pays off in subtle ways, creating an album that feels cohesive and sincere. It may not redefine contemporary jazz, but it reinforces the enduring appeal of thoughtful, well-executed ensemble work.