Drewslate

Some folks panic when a band member can’t make a rehearsal or a recording session, but not John Hollenbeck’s eternally industrious Claudia Quintet: they just turn it into music. But, wait a minute, Drew Gress’s bass is all over “Drewslate,” an ensemble piece that opens with a telephone message explaining why he can’t get there. Maybe this is yet another example of the wonders of overdubbing, but he sounds so integral to what this particular group groove is about. Or maybe it’s about forgoing rational explanation and just enjoying the music: also a worthwhile activity in this case!

—FJO