Written by Argentine drummer and composer Juan Chiavassa is set to release his debut album, “Fourth Generation,” on October 10, 2025, via Whirlwind Recordings. The album introduces Chiavassa not only as a leader but as a collaborator with a group of internationally acclaimed musicians. The core ensemble includes saxophonist George Garzone, pianist Leo Genovese, bassist John Patitucci, and features guest appearances by guitarist Mike Stern and percussionist Pedrito Martinez.
“Fourth Generation” was developed after Chiavassa spent five years touring as the drummer for Mike Stern’s band, accumulating experience alongside leading figures in the jazz field. The album brings together musicians from multiple generations and backgrounds, with a repertoire that stretches from 1960s and 1970s jazz to the present. The recording includes original compositions by Garzone as well as rarely recorded selections such as Joe Farrell’s “Moon Germs,” Joe Henderson’s “Caribbean Fire Dance,” and Wayne Shorter’s “Penelope.” These tracks are approached with a view to connecting jazz’s historical language and newer stylistic approaches.
The album reflects Chiavassa’s aim to act as both participant and inheritor of the jazz tradition. While not a composer of all the repertoire, his leadership is evident in the ensemble’s approach, programming choices, and rhythmic direction. The project presents a collective group sound rather than a showcase for an individual player, highlighting musical dialogue between ensemble members.
Juan Chiavassa’s career prior to this release has included performances and recordings with a diverse set of artists, ranging from Mike Stern and Esperanza Spalding to Eric Alexander and Paquito D’Rivera. He is recognized for versatility across genres such as jazz, Latin, soul, and world music. Chiavassa is a Berklee College of Music alumnus and a recipient of the 2015 Avedis Zildjian Scholarship Award. His production work includes the Julieta Rada album “Candombe” (2024), with guest contributions from Fito Paez and Lionel Loueke. In the past, he has released two volumes with the collaborative Neverpony project, emphasizing cross-cultural musical exchanges.
The personnel on “Fourth Generation” draw from significant backgrounds. John Patitucci is a Grammy Award–winning bassist known for his work with Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, and others, and recognized across jazz, classical, and pop contexts. Mike Stern, appearing as a guest on “Moon Germs,” has a four-decade career highlighted by collaboration with Miles Davis, the Brecker Brothers, and a series of acclaimed solo albums. George Garzone, a founding member of The Fringe, has established a prominent profile both as a performer and educator, with multiple recordings and a distinctive approach to improvisation. Leo Genovese, a Grammy-winning pianist, has worked extensively with Esperanza Spalding and contributed to projects by Wayne Shorter, Jack DeJohnette, and The Mars Volta. Pedrito Martinez, featured on percussion, is recognized for his extensive work as a Cuban percussionist and bandleader involved in collaborations across jazz and world music.
Additional contributors such as Federico Peña, Uruguayan-Argentine pianist and keyboardist with a background in both classical and jazz ensembles, further extend the range of musical voices on the project.
“Fourth Generation” documents Chiavassa’s vision of jazz as a living tradition, using a combination of original writing, carefully chosen repertoire, and collective performance. The release places emphasis on dialogue and collaboration, exemplifying how accomplished musicians across generations and national contexts can contribute to a dynamic group sound. The album enters the catalog of Whirlwind Recordings—an independent label known for projects engaging with both contemporary jazz practices and broader musical traditions.
For those interested in the progression of modern jazz through multiple perspectives, “Fourth Generation” offers a record of experienced improvisers working within a context that is both historically aware and open to new directions. The release date is set for October 10, 2025.
Last modified: October 11, 2025
