Sullivan Fortner's ended 2024 with three Grammy nominations including Best Jazz Instrumental Album for 2024's Solo Game. 2025 kicks off with the release of his new trio album Southern Nights. In July 2023, Fortner returned to the Village Vanguard as a leader. Tasked with forming an all-star trio, Sullivan brought together the iconic bassist Peter Washington, celebrated for his lyrical depth and groove, and drummer Marcus Gilmore, whose innovative rhythms have redefined modern jazz. Despite their first-ever collaboration and limited rehearsal, the trio's chemistry was immediate, resulting in Southern Nights, a raw, unedited live recording that perfectly captures the energy of their Vanguard performances. "Not only would this be the first time Peter and Marcus had ever met, but there was no time to rehearse. [...] With no isolation, no edits, and very few retakes, we managed to record 12 songs in four hours." Featuring one of Fortner's original composition, pieces by Allen Toussaint and Consuela Lee, and a heartfelt tribute to his late mentor, Bill Lee, the album is an acoustic celebration of spontaneity and connection. On Southern Nights, Fortner celebrates the music of New Orleans that he holds so dear and continues to prove why he is one of the most celebrated jazz pianists of his generation, delivering music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
