Jazz Articles about Ari Roland

Ari Roland: Sketches from a Bassist's Album

by Jim Santella
April 3, 2006

Any session led by a double-bassist has to have pizzazz to work. Ari Roland proves this axiom true as he solos with authority, walks the bass for a confident rhythmic foundation, and encourages his sidemen to turn it loose. From New York, just over thirty, and a standard fixture at Smalls, Roland finds it easy to communicate with other straight-ahead musicians and his audience. It's natural. He speaks through his instrument. With his quartet, he explores melodies that present a ...