The Florida State University College of Music is proud to highlight the recent musical milestones of two jazz faculty members, Rodney Jordan, bass and Leon Anderson, Jr., drums. Both musicians are set to release new projects that exemplify their mastery of jazz, deep-rooted cultural influences, and commitment to musical innovation.
Rodney Jordan: Memphis Blue
A Tribute to Hometown Roots
Bassist Rodney Jordan is set to release Memphis Blue on March 14, 2025 (Baxter Music Enterprises). Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee—the “Home of the Blues”—Jordan offers a personal and heartfelt tribute to his hometown. Featuring a blend of original compositions and classic standards, Memphis Blue brings together a team of top-tier collaborators, including trumpeter Melvin Jones (a fellow Memphian), pianist Louis Heriveaux, saxophonist Mark Sterbank, and drummer Quentin E. Baxter, who share in this evocative journey through the deep soul of the South.
“Not a typical blues recording, but if you listen closely, every piece has that thread running through it,” says Jordan. “There’s an optimism in the way we play that embodies the blues spirit.” Memphis Blue offers an authentic celebration of the spirit of Memphis, honoring its cultural significance while capturing the communal joy of its music.
Leon Anderson: Live at Snug Harbor
A Full Circle Moment
On April 4, 2025, Drummer Leon Anderson will release Live at Snug Harbor (Outside in Music), a reflection of his twenty-year journey as both a musician and educator. A tribute to New Orleans—the city that shaped his career—this live recording features a stellar ensemble of musicians: trumpeter John Michael Bradford, saxophonist Ricardo Pascal, pianist Oscar Rossignoli, and bassist Rodney Jordan.
“I’m so honored to have chosen the band that I did, as they truly bring to life the music that once existed in a folder written down on staff paper,” says Anderson.
The album captures the essence of Anderson’s formative years spent at the iconic Snug Harbor club, where he first performed in the house bands of jazz luminaries Ellis Marsalis and Victor Goines. Live at Snug Harbor is not just a career-defining moment, but also a celebration of the groove and spirit of New Orleans jazz.
“I wanted this project—my first recording project as a bandleader/composer—to capture the true essence of the live performance,” says Anderson, reflecting on the significance of this venue and the musical milestones achieved since his first performance there. “What better place to create this than the premier jazz club in New Orleans, LA?”
“[Snug Harbor] is where I spent countless nights performing with Ellis Marsalis, Victor Goines, Walter Payton, David Torkanowski, Terence Blanchard, and many others,” continues Anderson. “My life experiences – family, teaching, traveling, and performing – are captured on the record through the music in these compositions.”
The jazz faculty are certainly not alone in their achievements – other recently released albums from College of Music faculty include:
Matt Hightower Rapid Run
Hightower’s newest album, Rapid Run, was released on March 7, 2025 and is now available on all streaming platforms. Rapid Run is a multitracked album of all of Hightower’s original compositions and a few arrangements for tuba-euphonium ensemble. This project was supported by the Florida State University First Year Assistant Grant Program.
Mary Matthews Flute Lore
The latest album from flutist Mary Matthews, Flutelore invites listeners to delve into a world of folklore, fairytales, and proverbs through the evocative sound of the flute. Commissioned by Matthews in 2024, the album features two compelling flute concerti that explore a range of themes, from comedy and spirituality to the fantastical.
Paddy League Medicine Ball
League’s most recent album, Medicine Ball features original songs that fuse influences ranging from Brazilian psychedelia to indie Americana, showcasing collaborations with fellow College of Music faculty member Geoffrey Deibel, saxophone, and alumni Perry Osborn on guitar, vocalist Therese Whichello, and Chris Seepersaud on keyboard.
