“Tomorrow Part 1” marks the opening chapter of Drovers Unlimited Orchestra Volume 3, the final project by late composer and Chicago scene mainstay Mike Kirkpatrick. Rooted in Irish traditions but infused with a global sensibility, this track offers a rhythmic, melodic blend of jazz phrasing and folk instrumentation, anchored by a scale influenced by Ethiopian music. It’s described as “a reel for non-Irish playing musicians,” but the scope reaches far beyond.
The single sets the tone for the rest of the album with a joyful sense of rhythmic drive, textured by syncopated interplay and brass-fuelled motifs. There’s a sense of momentum and layered progression that rewards repeated listening—capturing the kind of boundary-pushing arrangement that defines Kirkpatrick’s body of work.
Kirkpatrick’s legacy as a composer, bandleader, educator, and performer is deepened by this final offering. Featuring contributions from respected artists including Kevin Burke, Billy Harper, Eddie Henderson, and Dave Liebman, Drovers Unlimited Orchestra Volume 3 is a cross-cultural mosaic. “Tomorrow Part 1” stands out for its groove, instrumental clarity, and the spirited balance between tradition and experimentation. The full album, Volume 3, is out now.