Joshua Redman

Joshua Redman returns with “Words Fall Short,” a deeply personal and boldly expressive new album that marks an organic next step in the celebrated saxophonist’s artistic evolution. Following the critical acclaim of “where are we,” Redman unveils a fresh quartet featuring pianist Paul Cornish, bassist Philip Norris, and drummer Nazir Ebo—three rising stars who bring both sensitivity and fire to his latest set of original compositions. Written largely during the pandemic, these pieces remained dormant until Redman found the right collaborators to bring them to life through nearly a year of live performance.

The album also features standout guest contributions from saxophonist Melissa Aldana (“So It Goes”), trumpeter Skylar Tang (“Icarus”), and vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa on “Era’s End,” a haunting lyrical recasting of the instrumental opener “A Message To Unsend.” Their voices add nuance and emotional depth, reinforcing Redman’s embrace of musical conversation over competition. Drawing inspiration from literature, introspection, and the imperfect beauty of human expression, “Words Fall Short” is an exploration of connection, vulnerability, and the power of sound when words are no longer enough.

With his signature blend of virtuosity, lyricism, and openness, Joshua Redman continues to push the boundaries of modern jazz—creating music that resonates with heart, intellect, and soul.