Chris McCarthy Quintet ft Takuya Kuroda & Eden Bareket

Pianist Chris McCarthy leads a four-night residency at Black Cat with trumpeter Takuya Kuroda and baritone saxophonist Eden Bareket, delivering what promises to be "live jazz at its most inspired."

McCarthy, praised by The New York Times for his "high skill and sensitivity," is one of New York's most in-demand pianists. His sophisticated compositional voice shines on albums like Still Time to Quit and Life's a Gig, where he crafts what critics describe as "rebellious post-bop" with "scarily-dexterous chops." Expect his genre-blurring approach that seamlessly weaves post-bop, world music influences, and contemporary jazz sensibilities.

Joining him is Kobe-born, Brooklyn-based trumpeter Kuroda, whose eight studio albums—including his latest chart-topping release Everyday—showcase his mastery of blending jazz with hip-hop, neo-soul, and funk. The former Blue Note and Concord recording artist brings "groove and pure creative energy" to collaborations with legends like DJ Premier and José James, crafting a signature sound that's "cool, soulful, and endlessly engaging."

Completing the frontline is Argentina-born, Israel-raised baritone saxophonist Bareket, known for his agile command of the baritone sax across its full range. His minimalist approach blends modern jazz with dark, funky grooves and open exploration, adding depth to the ensemble's sonic palette.

Reviewers describe McCarthy's live performances as featuring "savage yet controlled displays of friction and constant motion" with "rabidly jumping call-and-response structures." The quintet—rounded out by bassist Sam Minaie and drummer Steven Crammer—creates what critics call "never-ending streams of ideas" passed through the ranks "like hot potatoes," with the rhythm section bringing both funk and adventure to every performance.

This residency represents a rare chance to experience the "special chemistry" and "restless interplay" between three of contemporary jazz's most innovative voices, crafting music that radiates both sophistication and electrifying energy.