Home » Jazz Musicians » Bob Schlesinger

Bob Schlesinger

Pianist and composer Bob Schlesinger unveils his highly anticipated debut album as a leader, Falling From Earth. A project that began in 2018 and was nearly sidelined by the pandemic, the album now emerges as a fully realized statement featuring an all-star lineup: legendary guitarist Mike Stern, former Bill Evans bassist Eddie Gomez, in-demand drummer Billy Drummond, as well as bassist Kevin Axt, drummer Steve Hass, and others. Originally recorded in two sessions—at Sear Sound in New York City and Coupe Studios in Boulder—Schlesinger’s vision was initially slated for release in 2020. However, as the world came to a standstill, he seized the opportunity to reevaluate and refine the material alongside engineer-producer John March.

Falling From Earth showcases Schlesinger’s compositional prowess and deep musical connections, blending four original compositions, four Stern-penned pieces, an epic co-written improvisation, and thoughtfully curated covers. The sonic landscape ranges from the intimacy of a jazz trio to the fiery energy of an electric quartet, weaving together elements of modern jazz, fusion, and post-bop.Album highlights include the expansive 13-minute opener “Easy Offramp,” inspired by themes of mortality and transformation, Stern’s lyrical “Wing and a Prayer,” and Schlesinger’s deeply grooving “Left Field.” The trio’s heartfelt interpretation of Thad Jones’ “A Child Is Born” and a gospel-infused take on Bob Dylan’s “It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)” further demonstrate the album’s stylistic breadth and emotional depth.

For Schlesinger, releasing his debut as a leader at 68 carries profound significance. “In a world obsessed with youth and overnight success, there’s something to be said for creating art in one’s third act,” he reflects. Falling From Earth is a testament to perseverance, artistic growth, and the enduring power of collaboration.

Awards

Pathways to Jazz. Recording grant.

Gear

Baldwin Piano, Hammond A-100 organ. Yamaha and Kurzweil keyboards. Spectrasonics Keyscape and Omnisphere, Modart Pianoteq modeled piano.

Michael Wolff, Laufey, Bob Curnow and Bob Schlesinger

by Joe Dimino
September 14, 2025

From the soul of Denver's own Bob Schlesinger, we launch into another irresistible hour of Neon Jazz with episode 923. This one's packed with flavor--starting with Bob himself and moving into the legendary Michael Wolff, plus a wave of fresh sounds lighting up Summer 2025. You'll hear the brilliance of Steve Rosenbloom and his Big Band, Jim Witzel, Alberto Pibiri, and Jason Forsythe. Along the way, we mix in some unexpected gems--lush vibes from Laufey, island grooves courtesy of The ...

Live Review

Bob Schlesinger at Dazzle

by Geoff Anderson
August 20, 2025

Bob Schlesinger Dazzle Denver, COAugust 14, 2025 For decades, renowned recording engineer Rudy Van Gelder captured one classic jazz album after another in his Englewood Cliffs, NJ studio. Perhaps because he did so many, he was extremely efficient. He was able to get an album on tape in a single day, sometimes in as little as three hours. Other recording artists have been known to take a bit longer. Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the ...

Recording

FYC 'Falling From Earth' Showcases Relentless Commitment To Jazz Mastery

Source: All About Jazz
October 1, 2025

A bold, self-financed jazz odyssey emerges from years of collaboration, resilience, and vision Falling From Earth arrives as a testament to patience, perseverance, and the enduring power of collaboration. Produced and mixed by veteran audio technologist and producer John March, this independently financed project brings together some of the most celebrated names in modern jazz to craft an album that is as daring as it is deeply human. Featuring six-time GRAMMY nominee Mike Stern (guitar), GRAMMY winner Eddie Gomez (bass), ...
read more

Paris Move. “Falling From Earth” Rating: Indespensible. Born in a time of isolation, brought to life by persistence and passion. Conceived during the pandemic and finally seeing the light of day, Falling From Earth is far more than a standard jazz record; it’s a testament to perseverance, collaboration, and a deep love of craft. What begins as an album built on clever arrangements and engaging compositions quickly reveals itself as something greater: a gathering of remarkable musicians, each leaving their fingerprint on the music. And among them, one voice is instantly recognizable from the very first note of guitar: the luminous, elegant, unmistakable Mike Stern.”