The Messthetics & James Brandon Lewis: A Glimpse into the Future of Jazz Fusion
The recent announcement of The Messthetics’ upcoming album, Deface the Currency, featuring James Brandon Lewis, isn’t just another release date. It’s a signal flare for a burgeoning trend: the increasingly porous boundaries between post-hardcore instrumentalism and modern jazz. This collaboration, built on the foundation of 150 shows in a single year, exemplifies a shift in how musicians are approaching genre, improvisation, and audience engagement.
The Rise of “Post-Genre” Music
For decades, jazz has been a fertile ground for experimentation, constantly absorbing influences from around the globe. However, the current wave feels different. It’s not simply jazz incorporating other styles; it’s a genuine fusion where the lines blur to the point of irrelevance. The Messthetics, with their roots in the influential D.C. post-hardcore scene (thanks to Fugazi members Joe Lally and Brendan Canty), bring a rhythmic intensity and angularity rarely heard in traditional jazz.
This “post-genre” approach is gaining traction across the musical landscape. Artists like Robert Glasper, Terrace Martin, and even younger acts like DOMi & JD Beck are actively dismantling genre conventions. A 2023 report by Luminate showed a 22% increase in streams of albums categorized as “Jazz Fusion” compared to the previous year, indicating growing listener interest.
Improvisation & The Power of Live Performance
The Messthetics and Lewis’s intensive touring schedule – 150 shows – is crucial to understanding this trend. This isn’t music crafted solely in the studio; it’s honed and refined through constant live interaction. The extended time on the road allows for deeper improvisation and a more intuitive connection between the musicians.
This emphasis on live performance is a direct response to the limitations of the streaming era. While streaming provides accessibility, it often lacks the visceral energy of a live show. Artists are increasingly focusing on creating experiences that can’t be replicated digitally, fostering a stronger connection with their audience. Consider the success of Khruangbin, whose captivating live shows have become a cornerstone of their brand.
D.C.’s Enduring Influence on Experimental Music
The Messthetics’ origins in the Washington, D.C. music scene are significant. D.C. has a long history of fostering independent, experimental music, from the punk revolution of the 1980s to the go-go scene and beyond. This legacy of artistic freedom and DIY ethos continues to inspire musicians today.
The city’s relatively low cost of living (compared to New York or Los Angeles) also allows artists to take risks and experiment without the same financial pressures. This creates a unique environment where innovation can flourish. A recent study by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities found that the city’s creative economy generates over $1.5 billion annually.
The Role of Independent Labels
The Messthetics’ partnership with Impulse! Records, while a respected label with a rich jazz history, also highlights the importance of independent labels in supporting this kind of boundary-pushing music. Impulse! has a reputation for taking risks on artists who don’t fit neatly into traditional genre boxes.
Independent labels often provide the creative freedom and financial support that larger labels may be hesitant to offer. They are crucial for nurturing emerging artists and fostering a diverse musical landscape. Labels like Blue Note, ECM, and Warp Records have consistently championed innovative music throughout their histories.
Did you know? Impulse! Records was founded in 1960 as a jazz label specifically to capture the energy and innovation of the era, and continues that tradition today.
Touring as a Creative Incubator
The band’s extensive tour dates (listed below) aren’t just promotional; they’re an integral part of the creative process. Playing different venues, in front of diverse audiences, forces musicians to adapt and evolve their sound. This constant refinement is what separates a good band from a truly great one.
04-17 Portland, OR – Star Theater
04-18 Seattle, WA – Clock-Out Lounge
04-19 Vancouver, British Columbia – Wise Hall
04-25 Raleigh, NC – Kings
04-26 Asheville, NC – Ayurprana Listening Room
04-27 Atlanta, GA – The Earl
04-28 Lexington, KY – Singletary Center for the Arts
04-30 Chicago, IL – Constellation
05-01 Detroit, MI – Third Man Records
05-02 Toronto, Ontario – 918 Bathurst
05-03 Erie, PA – Centennial Hall
05-04 Kingston, NY – Tubby’s
05-05 Boston, MA – City Winery Boston
05-06 New York, NY – Le Poisson Rouge
05-07 Pittsburgh, PA – Pittsburgh Jazz & Poetry Festival
05-08 Philadelphia, PA – Solar Myth
05-09 Washington, DC – The Black Cat
FAQ
Q: What genre is The Messthetics?
A: They defy easy categorization, but are often described as post-hardcore instrumental, jazz fusion, or experimental rock.
Q: Who are the members of The Messthetics?
A: Joe Lally and Brendan Canty (of Fugazi) and Terence McManus.
Q: What is “post-genre” music?
A: Music that intentionally blends elements from multiple genres, blurring the lines between them and creating something new.
Q: Where can I listen to their new single?
A: “Gestations” is available on major streaming platforms and via Pitchfork.
Pro Tip: Explore the discographies of Impulse! Records and other independent jazz labels to discover more artists pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Want to delve deeper into the world of experimental jazz and post-hardcore fusion? Check out our article on the evolving landscape of instrumental music. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and insights!
