Music ReviewsTrombone

Noteworthy Takeaways from “Grit & Grace”

  • Released in 2023, Grit & Grace is the third album on Sunnyside Records, following releases in 2019 (Bonegasm) and 2021 (Not A Novelty).
  • While the first album is an introduction to the group, and the second album is a positive continuation of the ensemble, this third album of ‘Grit and Grace’ is where Bonegasm really syncs and pushes the musical boundary.
  • There is no doubt the group is experienced as an ensemble and feeds off of each other’s solos and ensemble nuances. It is clear Bonegasm has been on the road and the recording studio.
  • ‘Be Normal’ sets the stage for a storyline that displays emotive drive.
  • ‘In our Darkest Hour’ gives buildup with a hammering gauntlet while the blending is always rock solid.
  • ‘Anita’ – a pleasant waltz-like melody that skates through harmonious ascending chords
  • ‘Norhala’ – ensemble is solid with the solo voice sitting on top of the bed of crunchy edge with a driving punch.
  • ‘Uncertainty’ – swirling piano chords with cymbals always keep the music moving to an uncertain path, with positive sounds of more process than a destination
  • ‘Menina Sozinha’ and ‘La Bruja’ are filled with Latin flare and dance-like
  • The ensemble’s experience is amplified through ‘Virtual Reality’ and its building of harmonic layers, oftentimes sounding like one player.
  • The signature sound of Jennifer Wharton’s pedal-ness shines through the entire album with well… Grit!
  • The musical bar continues to rise with Bonegasm both in individual playing and collaborative artistry.
    • Speaking of bar, the lyrics to ‘Coop’s Condiments’ may get stuck in your head…

Click Here To Purchase ‘Grit & Grace.

Click Here To Learn More About Jennifer Wharton’s Bonegasm.

Jeremy Smith

Jeremy E. Smith is the Founder and Editor of Last Row Music. He received music degrees from Grace College, Carnegie Mellon University, and The Ohio State University. Currently, Jeremy is the bass trombonist of the Mansfield Symphony Orchestra and performs throughout Ohio, where he lives with his wife and two sons. Smith is a member of the International Trombone Association and the Jazz Journalists Association.