Perhaps because he grew up in the city, guitarist David Ullmann doesn’t show off the frenzied muscularity symptomatic of so many young transplants to the New York jazz scene. The compositions on Falling, his second CD, are built around the kind of rhythmic intricacy so prevalent in academia-bred musicians (he graduated from the New School), but couched in a contemplative drift. His own playing is airy enough not to overwhelm the shimmering textures of vibraphonist Chris Dingman. Those two share the frontline with saxophonist Karel Ruzicka Jr., and between them delicately craft a fragile sound that doesn’t lack in assertiveness but is nimble enough not to shatter the mood of serenity that Ullmann carefully builds. Bassist Gary Wang and drummer Vinnie Sperazza add a rhythm bed that is supportive but flexible. The same band will be in tow for Ullmann’s late-night slot at Chris’.
Thu., Sept. 20, 10 p.m., $10, Chris’ Jazz Café, 1421 Sansom St., 215-568-3131, chrisjazzcafe.com.
