Parallel Universe Behn Gillece

• 1 Break The Ice 05:11
• 2 Bossa For R.M. 05:54
• 3 Parallel Universe 06:29
• 4 Ready For Tomorrow 05:07
• 5 Smoke Screen 04:32
• 6 Eviscerate 03:04
• 7 Downpour 04:53
• 8 Shadow Of The Flame 05:36
• 9 Evening Glow 07:16
• 10 Alice's Journey 04:42
• 11 Candle In The Dark 05:13
• Total Runtime 57:57

Info for Parallel Universe

For his fourth album on Posi-Tone, Downbeat Rising Star vibraphonist Behn Gillece investigates the parallax of perspectives created by the individual approaches of introversion and extroversion which comprise the “Parallel Universe.” With purposeful intention, Gillece repeatedly shifts his musical focus back and forth between inward to outward perspectives. While doing this, he moves straight forward through a series of original compositions that skillfully combine his high-powered harmonic approach with stunning displays of lyricism and create an engaging set of transformative tour de force performances. Gillece shines brightly throughout while clearly enjoying supportive companionship from saxophonist Stacy Dillard, trumpeter Bruce Harris, pianist Art Hirahara, bassist David Wong, and drummer Rudy Royston, each of whom contribute uniquely bright moments to the proceedings. With an expressive program of musical offerings, Behn Gillece’s “Parallel Universe” is a joyous journey which seeks to engage and entertain listeners while simultaneously transporting them into new realms of personal insight and sonorous delight.

Behn Gillece, vibraphone
Bruce Harris, trumpet
Stacy Dillard, tenor saxophone
Art Hirahara, piano
David Wong, bass
Rudy Royston, drums

Behn Gillece
Having spent many years deeply embedded in the vibrant jazz scenes of New York and Philadelphia, Behn Gillece has carved out a distinguished reputation as both a virtuosic vibraphonist and a prolific composer. Drawing inspiration from luminaries like Milt Jackson, Gary Burton and Bobby Hutcherson, Gillece has dedicated himself to pushing the boundaries of vibraphone artistry while leaving an indelible mark on the jazz landscape as a composer. Hailing from New Jersey, Gillece honed his craft through numerous performance opportunities in his home state and Philadelphia before making the leap to New York City in 2006. Since then, he has solidified his status as a sought-after sideman, as well as a formidable bandleader and recording artist.

His latest album, "Stick Together" (2024, Posi-Tone), is a testament to the power of collaboration and synergy. Teaming up with esteemed musicians such as pianist Art Hirahara, bassist Boris Kozlov, and drummer Rudy Royston, Gillece crafts musical creations imbued with an undeniable sense of joy and ease.

From 2009 to 2013, Gillece co-led four transformative recordings on Posi-Tone with tenor saxophonist Ken Fowser, garnering international acclaim and extensive streaming and radio play. His albums as a leader— including "Mindset" (2015), "Dare To Be" (2016), "Walk Of Fire" (2017), "Parallel Universe" (2018), "Still Doing Our Thing" (2021), and "Between The Bars" (2023)— propelled him into the spotlight, earning him a 2018 Downbeat Rising Star award. Additionally, Gillece has lent his talents as a sideman to various acclaimed recordings, collaborating with artists such as Patrick Cornelius, Michael Dease, New Faces, Walt Weiskopf, Melody Gardot, Idle Hands, Out To Dinner, and Ensemble Novo.

Gillece's performances have reached prestigious venues worldwide, including the Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, Kimmel Center, Smalls Jazz Club, Mezzrow, Jazz Standard, Side Door, Smoke Jazz Club, Fat Cat, Yoshi's, Chris’ Jazz Cafe, as well as renowned festivals such as North Sea, Montreux, Nice, Molde, Ghent, Montreal, and Toronto festivals.

In addition to his robust performance life, Gillece also has a burgeoning career as a music educator. Gillece is a member of the faculty at Rowan University, where he teaches vibraphone, jazz ensemble, music theory, and online courses. In addition to the various workshops he has been asked to give at colleges and universities across the world, he has prepared over 700 lessons for online instruction on vibesworkshop.com, which benefits percussion students internationally.

A recipient of numerous accolades, including the 2018 Downbeat Rising Star Vibraphonist award, Gillece holds a master's degree from SUNY Purchase and is endorsed by Malletech instruments. Other honors include the 2009 Betty Carter Jazz Ahead residency, winning the Generations competition in 2009, and winning the 2008 Jazz Improvisation competition at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention.

This album contains no booklet.