Since forming in 2011, the Dave Douglas Quintet has released three studio albums and an 8-CD live box set, and toured widely, developing an unmatched ensemble rapport. With saxophonist Jon Irabagon, pianist Matt Mitchell, bassist Linda May Han Oh, and drummer Rudy Royston, the group has forged a unique language that is a sound all their own. Their new album, 'Songs of Ascent: Book1-Degrees,' isa riff on these 15psalms-fascinating, somewhat mysterious works which inspired the composer. Douglas' pieces were written around these psalms. Let Me Go, the only exception, was written on the day Dave decided to take this on. That piece and seven others comprise this release, which is high energy and introspective at the same time. Irabagon's playing on tenor and soprano saxes as well as alto clarinet creates a wide range of timbres and colors. The bands intuitive call and response, dialogic playing is evident from the first note to the last. There are 16 Songs of Ascent, split into two books-the subsequent 8 are on a companion disc subtitled Steps, which is immediately available to members of Greenleaf Music.

1) Never Let Me Go

2) Deceitful Tongues       

3) Lift Up My Eyes       

4) Peace Within Your Walls   

5) Enthroned           

6) A Fowler's Snare       

7) Scepter           

8) Mouths Full Of Joy