When it comes to making a statement as a leader in jazz, few can do so with the effortless elegance and musical depth of Bennett Roth. A true Bay Area native, Roth’s extensive career as a sideman and composer has seen him lending his talents to a diverse array of jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and soul artists. But with “It’ll Always Work Out,” his first release as a leader, he steps into the spotlight and crafts an album that not only showcases his prowess as a pianist but also his deep-rooted belief in the power of optimism and musical collaboration. From the moment I hit play on “It’ll Always Work Out,” it became clear Roth’s musicality comes from a place of technical brilliance and genuine joy. The album’s title is a declaration in itself—a mantra of sorts that permeates every track, encouraging us to surrender to the flow of life and music. Let me break it down, track by track, so you can fully appreciate what Bennett Roth has laid down:
The title track, “It’ll Always Work Out,” kicks off the album with a sense of calm and confidence. Roth’s piano work here is assertive but not overbearing, setting a serene yet hopeful mood. The opening chords are like the first rays of sunlight breaking through the clouds, with the groove established by Bohrer’s bass and Henning’s subtle yet steady drumming providing the perfect foundation. There’s an ease to the way Roth navigates the melody—each note seems chosen with purpose, and each phrase feels like a whispered assurance that, yes, everything will be okay. The trio’s chemistry is palpable, and as Roth’s improvisations unfold, they reflect the album’s overarching theme of resilience.
“With My Eyes Closed” is a beautiful reflection of trust and surrender. As Roth’s fingers dance across the keys, the melody ebbs and flows, mirroring the sentiment of being in tune with something greater than oneself. The rhythm section takes on a playful quality, adding a sense of movement, while Roth’s piano lifts the track with both soft, meditative lines and more fiery, intense bursts of improvisation. The song’s structure feels like a journey through uncertainty, yet there’s always an undercurrent of faith—an expression of belief that, no matter what, it will always work out in the end.
“Smooth And Ambitious” is a nod to Roth’s versatility, blending smooth jazz with ambitious harmonic choices. The bassline is liquid and smooth, effortlessly supporting Roth’s complex piano work. Henning’s drums swing with fluid energy, allowing the trio to settle into a funky groove that still retains an air of sophistication. This track feels like a celebration of Roth’s growth as a musician—his ability to navigate and intertwine various styles, from smooth jazz to the more experimental elements, demonstrates his command over his craft and his ambition to push musical boundaries.
A beautiful tribute to the community and the shared experience of music, “Our Village” is a samba-inspired tune that swings with infectious energy. Roth’s playing here is both playful and precise, with the rhythm section building a sense of togetherness that is both literal and figurative. Bohrer’s bass plays a crucial role in grounding the track, while Henning’s drumming adds the perfect accents to lift Roth’s piano phrases. There’s a sense of collective spirit that permeates this track, reminding us that no matter where we are, we’re always part of something larger than ourselves.
“In the Spirit,” Roth draws on elements of soul and funk, blending them seamlessly with his jazz foundation. The track starts with Roth’s piano taking on a more energetic, soulful tone, urging you to feel the pulse of the music. The interplay between the bass and drums adds a groove-laden intensity, making this one of the more upbeat moments of the album. Roth’s improvisations are free and expansive, showing his mastery of blending genres while keeping the track grounded in its rhythmic roots.
A more introspective and cinematic moment on the album, “Dream of Vee” is a beautiful meditation, marked by Roth’s subtle yet poignant piano playing. The track feels like a slow-moving dream sequence, with Roth’s delicate piano lines weaving through the serene rhythm section. There’s a sense of nostalgia here, evoking memories of quiet moments, perhaps of personal reflection or connection. The track is tender yet full of heart, showcasing Roth’s emotional depth as a composer and performer.
The album concludes with “Turning Heads,” a track that’s as much about virtuosity as it is about maintaining an effortless groove. The trio’s tight interplay is on full display here, with Roth playing with a mix of confidence and flair. This track has a funky energy, full of catchy rhythms and sophisticated piano phrases that are guaranteed to turn heads. Roth’s performance is technically impressive and full of personality, demonstrating his comfort in pushing the boundaries of jazz while staying rooted in its tradition.
The production of the album is crisp and warm, allowing the trio’s instruments to shine without overprocessing. The live feel of the album gives it a timeless quality as if the listener is sitting right in front of the trio during a late-night jam session. The instrumentation—piano, bass, and drums—feels complete in its simplicity, with each musician’s role clearly defined but still fluid enough to allow for creativity and spontaneity. The basslines are deep and resonant, while the drums swing with a natural looseness, providing the perfect backdrop for Roth’s commanding piano work.
Bennett Roth’s “It’ll Always Work Out” is an album that invites us to believe in the power of music and optimism. Through his nuanced piano work, Roth not only displays his expertise as a jazz pianist but also as a composer who knows how to balance complexity with accessibility. The album’s mix of genres and styles demonstrates his versatility as an artist and a collaborator. So, if you’re seeking an album that inspires both thought and feeling, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Listen to the “It’ll Always Work Out” album on Spotify
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