San Francisco

What: John Palowitch @ Black Cat

When: Thursday January 15 19:00

Launched by bassist Giulio Xavier Cetto and former Mars Volta/Thundercat drummer Thomas Pridgen, Big Trippin is a California-based improvisation-laced vehicle for exploring state-of-the-art grooves.

While the band mainly performs as an instrumental quartet including alto saxophonist John Palowitch and pianist Javier Santiago, they are known for surprise “collective” shows utilizing California’s most talented artists, including emcees, vocalists, and instrumentalists alike. These vibe masters specialize in getting a party started and keeping the energy bumping for improvisers, MC’s and dancers alike. Encompassing rock, hip hop, funk and jazz, the collective is built on the loose and limber rhythm section tandem of Cetto and Pridgen, players recognized internationally as contemporary music standard bearers.

For this show, Big Trippin will play in its original form: a raw instrumental quartet, delivering original music and arrangements with searing fusion melodies expertly placed over house and hip hop-inspired grooves. A night not to miss from one of the US’s most promising up-and-coming jazz groups.

John Palowitch – saxophone Javier Santiago – keys Giulio Xavier Cetto – bass Thomas Pridgen – drums