Drummer Jaska Lukkarinen’s new solo project One For Joe is a tribute to jazz drummer Philly Joe Jones, best known as the drummer for the Miles Davis Quintet 1955-58. However, One For Joe is mainly a tribute to Jones’ other artists, including Freddie Hubbard, Donald Byrd and J.R. Jones. Montrose, between 1956 and 1961. The songs include inspiring melodic and rhythmic elements that build a bridge from the 1950s to the present day. Musically, One For Joe is unique in the Finnish jazz scene because of Lukkarinen’s knowledge of Philly Joe Jones and the material presented. The concert offers inexorable swing, energetic accompaniment and imaginative solism, as well as 1950s-inspired ensemble playing. There will also be stories and anecdotes from the career of Philly Joe Jones.
Jones’ playing has many of the characteristics that made him one of the most used accompanists of the Hard Bop era. One For Joe is intrinsically linked to Lukkarinen’s own artistic doctorate, which focuses on the drummer’s backing and ways of creating musical energy. However, Lukkarinen’s intention is not to copy Jones’ playing, but to use Jones’ means to create a rhythmic hold-release movement.