The Fifth

What would happen if Beethoven were to present lead sheets to an all-star lineup of the heaviest hitters on today’s jam scene? Reed Mathis conquers the task in his fresh approach to tackling Beethoven’s 5th Symphony aptly titled “The Fifth.” Dubby textures pave the way for blissful organ fills and canonic improvisation. The true beauty in Mathis’ interpretation lies in both spatial and textural awareness of all moving parts—all musicians are free to craft their role within the song without ever “soloing” or blandly noodling over a rhythm section. Tension and release is epitomized in a pensive breakdown before pivoting back to the iconic “A” section that simmers down with the intent to make the audience resonate with a brand new sonic experience unlike anything else.