I have to say that one of my favorite instruments is the vibraphone. Its smooth sounds always captivated me. Indie jazz vibraphonist Joe Locke captured my attention with his latest album, Makram.

Born in Palo Alto, California but raised in Rochester, NY like many musicians he grew up with music at home. His father was a music teacher and by age 8 Joe Locke started learning to play the drums and piano. It wasn’t until later that he learned to play the vibraphone.

Jazz was not his first choice, he played in rock bands but while a teenager he grew to love jazz. He moved to New York City in 1981 and started playing as a sideman. He played with jazz musicians such as Kenny Barron, Marvin Smith, and Eddie Henderson. Joe Locke cites his musical influences as Milt Jackson and Bobby Hutcherson.

He made his debut in 1990 with the album Present Tense and has recorded several albums since then. He is a well-sought-after vibes man and has performed or recorded with jazz singer, Dianne Reeves, Latin jazz legend Eddie Palmieri, legendary jazz double bassist Ron Carter and even the hip-hop band, The Beastie Boys and so many more. This composer, bandleader, and conceptualist is a force to be reckoned with. He just released his latest album, Makram and I’m already in love with several of the songs. He is on tour and will be playing in Tarrytown, NY on April 14-15th. Check out this amazing jazz vibraphonist and support independent music and musicians. Happy listening!