Jones, described succinctly as “the real deal” by the famed jazz composer and trumpeter Marcus Printup, already has a distinguished and diverse recording catalog, including sessions with Sonny Emory and the late, great Illinois Jacquet. Jones new album, however, represents his first recording as a band leader. Nearly all of the tunes on ‘Pivot’ are original compositions, and Jones believes they reflect well on his multi-directional career. He says, “This album shows how all music is essentially similar, and that a musician who understands the feel of music should be able to perform different styles effectively regardless of genre. ‘Pivot’ combines diverse sounds from blues to straight ahead, from gospel to samba, all within a jazz-oriented framework.” Jones applauds his highly talented band mates on this album, including Mace Hibbard on saxophone, pianist Louis Heriveaux, drummer Leon Anderson, and Rodney Jordan on acoustic bass. In addition, the album also features special guests Mike Burton on saxophone, “Lil” John Roberts and Terreon Gully on drums, trombonist Jeff Bradshaw and pianist Brian Hogans. Of all these acclaimed musicians, Jones says, “These performers can swing on one piece, samba on another, and play the down-home blues on yet another. Fellow Turnaround Records artist Brian Hogans is known as one of the most exciting and adventurous saxophonists on the scene, but he plays piano and fender rhodes on my album in a way that our listeners will find irresistible.” Many of the tunes on ‘Pivot’ were written specifically for this album and also expressly for the performers who would be helping to play them. Says Jones, “While all of these musicians have made great names for themselves in their respective genres, I knew about the type of music that they play when they’re not on stage. That rare, stylistic flexibility was what I wanted to capture on this album. These gifted musicians have the innate ability to change directions and styles authentically, and ‘Pivot’ showcases those remarkable talents.”