MidCentury Modern Vol 4 - released Spring 2026

Gabriel moves effortlessly between the classic and contemporary jazz worlds—a rare dual fluency shared by only a handful of true crossover artists such as Randy Brecker, Bob James, Marcus Miller, and Herbie Hancock. While many have attempted this balance with mixed or unconvincing results, Gabriel succeeds without compromise.

He defies the pigeonholing and stylistic gatekeeping that purists often mistake for a measure of artistic legitimacy within the jazz idiom. Instead, his work stands on its own terms.

Widely regarded as the standard bearer for contemporary jazz in Canada—and unquestionably at the top of the hierarchy in Western Canada—Gabriel’s international profile is equally formidable. He has placed 11 bona fide hits on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts, maintaining a continuous presence in the Hot 100. His mainstream recognition includes multiple JazzWeek charting titles, notably MidCentury Modern Vol. 3, which peaked at No. 9, remained on the charts for 17 weeks, and finished at No. 51 on the Year-End Top 100.

Beyond his extensive global festival appearances, Gabriel has led a big band and spent significant time honing his craft in New Orleans jazz clubs. His core influences are rooted in the trumpet lineage—led by Blue Mitchell and followed closely by Lee Morgan, Freddie Hubbard, Clifford Brown, and Chet Baker.

MidCentury Modern Vol. 4 also pays homage to lesser celebrated voices, featuring classic tunes by Carmel Jones (I’m Gonna Go Fishin’) and Joe Gordon (Terra Firma Irma), alongside works here by Freddie Hubbard (Superblue), and Blue Mitchell (Chick’sTune, Mississippi Jump, Mamacita & Blue Soul).

(tracks not final mastered)

1. Terra Firma Irma 4:55