Dominic Bierenga

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Zen Zadravec: New Paradigm

by Jack Bowers
June 23, 2026

While there are few new wrinkles on Canadian-born pianist Zen Zadravec's album, New Paradigm, neither is there anything to mar this well-wrapped post-bop session comprised of eight of his generally bright and pleasing compositions and arrangements. Zadravec leads what is essentially a sextet (three-horn front line and rhythm), mixing things up by adding a guitar on three tracks, wordless vocals on two. Guitarist Tom Bartelmay is especially impressive on “New Paradigm" and “Do or Do Not, There Is ...