BIX TOP ACT: YELLOWJACKETS

Even in their fifth decade as a band, the Yellowjackets show no signs of slowing down. Quite the contrary, as the title of their latest release, "Fasten Up," the 27th album in the quartet's legendary career and their seventh for Mack Avenue Records, suggests.

The curious turn of phrase, taken from bassist Dane Alderson's exhilarating title track, expresses the band's ethos of unbridled dynamism while conveying a cautionary message: get ready, buckle up, the Yellowjackets are back and going full throttle. Their new album "Fasten Up" was released on February 21, 2025.
The forward momentum that has driven the Yellowjackets throughout their history has less to do with the pace of the songs themselves - which, as always, are a vibrant mix of styles and influences - and more to do with their commitment to discovery and renewal. These ideas are reflected in the band's lineup, which consists of founding member and pianist/keyboardist Russell Ferrante; drummer Will Kennedy, whose second tenure with the band (as of 2010) has surpassed his first (1987-1999); saxophonist Bob Mintzer, who came aboard in 1990; and Australian-born Alderson, who, along with the release of Fasten Up, is celebrating his first decade as a "Jacket." Yellowjackets is all encompassing; we appreciate chamber music, R&B, gospel and straight ahead jazz, so much so that it's hard to pinpoint the predominant influence. We have an identifiable sound, but it's constantly evolving based on the way we write, as a vehicle for the way we want to play together." Kennedy attributes the band's unique position to their ability to balance tradition and innovation. "At over 40 years old, it's already a little club that you belong to," says the drummer.

There's a reflective perspective in that. We can look back on a history that has brought a lot of fun, challenges and changes. The music industry is constantly evolving, and we're honored to still be here after all this time and be key contributors.

It's a collaborative joy that animates all the music Yellowjackets make. The thrill of shared discovery sparkles through the powerful funk grooves, deepens the emotion of the ballads, digs deep to uncover the roots of the band's refreshing swing sensibility. On Fasten Up, their rich history remains in focus in the rearview mirror as they accelerate into the future.

Lineup: Russell Ferrante (p, synth); Bob Mintzer (reeds, EWI); Dane Alderson (b); Will Kennedy (dr)