The John Abercrombie Quartet was a contemporary jazz ensemble led by esteemed American guitarist John Abercrombie (1944-2017). Abercrombie's career spanned over four decades in which his contributions as a bandleader, and his work with the quartet in particular, showcased his versatile and nuanced approach to jazz guitar. Blending elements of jazz, fusion, and even touches of rock, Abercrombie's playing was noted for its lyrical phrasing, subtle guitar work and the sophisticated interplay between his band members.

The quartet's lineup has seen several iterations over the years, but the core philosophy of the group remained the same: to explore the boundaries of jazz through introspective compositions and dynamic improvisations. Their album "Up And Coming," released in 2017, served as the final recording from the ensemble before Abercrombie's passing, and it was a clear example of the quartet's matured sound and interplay. Other remarkable recordings include "39 Steps" (2013), which featured a blend of original pieces and reimagined classics; "Within A Song" (2012), which paid homage to the artists who influenced Abercrombie; "Wait Till You See Her" (2009), showcasing the quartet's lyrical and melodic strength; and "Arcade" (1979), which was the debut album for the quartet, setting the tone for Abercrombie's innovative blend of harmonic sophistication and free-flowing improvisation. "The First Quartet" (2015), a box set reissue, presented the seminal works of Abercrombie's early quartet years, securing his legacy as a pioneering figure in jazz.

Genres

Ecm-style Jazz

Jazz Quartet

Latest Release

Up And Coming

John Abercrombie Quartet

Album - 8 Tracks - Released January 13, 2017