With an established reputation on the Canadian jazz scene that continues to grow, in-demand drummer Jacob Wutzke takes the lead in his debut with Cellar Live, You Better Bet. Based in Montréal, Wutzke seems to have no end to his talent: a performer, composer, music educator – he's even self-published drummer practice and method books that have assisted players all over the world. He undertook his music studies at Toronto’s Humber University, before completing a postgraduate in Jazz Performance at McGill University in 2022. Praised for his ability to improvise with impeccable technique, Wutzke has built a reputation for himself working alongside bebop and swing vocalist Caity Gyorgy (a multiple JUNO Award Winner), as well as renowned bassist Ira Coleman.  

Wutzke’s connection to Coleman played a significant role in this album's conception and ultimate execution. You Better Bet is a tribute to one of his musical heroes: drummer Tony Williams. Most famously known for playing with Miles Davis in his 'Second Great Quintet', Tony Williams moved on to establish new music and groups in his own right, including his own quintet in the 1980s and 1990s. When Wutzke crossed paths with Ira Coleman (a member of Williams’ quintet), what followed would set the foundations for the album.The pair would meet weekly with a quintet to rehearse Tony’s compositions, Coleman sharing – much to Wutzke’s delight – handwritten physical copies of the original charts he had kept. They also delved into discussions about Williams as a bandleader, where Coleman shared insight as to how he had led his ensemble from the drums. Inspired by the experience, Wutzke put pen to paper and crafted five of his own compositions in the style of the repertoire they had been working on. Combining these originals with five Tony Williams pieces, it makes for a balanced ten-track album. 

Playing the upright bass, Ira Coleman is one of the many talented members of the quintet featured on this release. Pianist Bryn Roberts and trumpeter Rachel Therrien lend their expertise to the ensemble, both established international musicians. Long-time friend and collaborator of Wutzke, Lucas Dubovik, rounds off the ensemble on the tenor saxophone, whilst Wutzke leads the group from his drum chair. Inspired by the Blue Note sounds of the 1950s and 60s, this is where the music is rooted, but Wutzke gives it a modern edge. 

The opening track, 'Sister Cheryl', is a colourful and brooding rendition of Williams’ original composition. It was classed as a ‘modern standard’ by the likes of Herbie Hancock and the ensemble do it justice, drawing on the melodic lines and the technical precision of the drumming. Wutzke’s original ‘Like A Bird’ begins with the chirpy-sounding saxophone and drums in dialogue with one another, before the ensemble join in the bluesy refrain. Wutzke’s drumming has light but crisp sound; he leaves space for soloists in the limelight, but underpins consistently with refined and nuanced skill. Dubovik’s solo in this piece is stylistic as it ebbs and flows through pace and mood, a testament to his distinctive voice on the saxophone. Another stand-out is the title track, where Wutzke demonstrates clean and precise playing that is both expressive and impeccably polished – especially in his drum solo towards the end. Coleman’s precision on the rapid bassline is also impressive and artfully done. 

This album, driven by Jacob Wutzke’s admiration for such an influential jazz performer and composer, is a creative snapshot into this exciting period of a growing artist. For fans of Tony Williams, there is plenty to enjoy, and something new in Wutzke’s own pieces. For those who just enjoy the classic Blue Note sounds of years gone by, this certainly does that too, but with a modern touch. Wutzke confidently takes the lead with this album, showcasing the mastery of his craft, which hopefully will lead to higher international recognition. If anything, this album proves that Wutzke is not simply a side-man, but a talented musician who delivers as a bandleader, composer and performer.    

Maddy Allison

from www.prestomusic.com