James Brandon Lewis

Instrumental-trio The Messthetics joins forces with acclaimed jazz-saxophonist James Brandon Lewis in a self-titled album, The Messthetics and James Brandon Lewis. The album becomes a subtly shifting, cathartic jazz and funk-flecked trip, generously rammed with the musicians' artistry. Whilst straddling the border of jazz fusion, the supergroup maintains a strong, distinct identity across the album.

James Brandon Lewis was the Downbeat Jazz Saxophonist of the year in 2023 and at the time one of the great players on the planet. The Messthetics feature bassist Joe Lally and drummer Brendan Canty, members of the iconic punk/indie band Fugazi, marking their first collaboration since the band went on extended hiatus in 2002. Rounding out the trio is guitarist Anthony Pirog, an artist steeped in jazz who is also a major figure on Washington, D.C.'s experimental music scene.

All teamed up to record an entire record of new and original tunes in a fever dream of a session. The record is an amalgam of all their influences, but now with James Brandon Lewis setting fire to all preconceptions.

PERSONNEL
James Brandon Lewis - saxophone
Anthony Pirog - guitar
Joe Lally - bass
Brendan Canty - drums

TRACKLIST
01 L’Orso
02 Emergence
03 That Thang
04 Three Sisters
05 Boatly
06 The Time Is the Place
07 Railroad Tracks Home
08 Asthenia
09 Fourth Wall