Like guitars in rock, horns get all the spotlight in jazz. Rightful in some ways, but also very reductively wrong. Young composer and bandleader Jalen Baker is making the case for the vibraphone with modern jazz that spotlights the rich, expressive instrument as not just a vibey element but a leading light.
More than that, he also wields his music with cultural intent. His quartet’s show will be an advance peek at Baker’s upcoming new album, RePaved, which is both a mirror and celebration of the historical Third, Fourth and Fifth Wards of his native Houston.
7 p.m. Thursday, July 9, Judson’s Live, drphillipscenter.org, $35.11-$58.71.
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This article appears in July 8-14, 2026.
