Back catalogue: Broken Beat/Nu Jazz/Nu Soul

Review: Jeff Parker's The Way Out of Easy harnesses his long-running ETA IVtet's residency at the Los Angeles creative music venue, ETA. Featuring saxophonist Josh Johnson, bassist Anna Butterss, and drummer Jay Bellerose, the album comprises four expansive tracks recorded live on January 2, 2023. Known for their transcendental, groove-oriented improvisations, the ETA IVtet's sound evolved over seven years, blending minimalism and polyrhythmic mantras. Engineered by Bryce Gonzales, who designed a custom mixer specifically for the group, The Way Out of Easy presents a pure, transparent auditory experience. The set begins with 'Freakadelic', a composition from Parker's 2012 album, before moving through meditative and richly textured pieces like 'Late Autumn' and 'Easy Way Out'. The album closes with a spontaneous dub/reggae groove titled 'Chrome Dome'. As the final chapter in ETA's history, The Way Out of Easy is a testament to the ensemble's deep creative synergy and the enduring spirit of the venue.