Masters has crafted what he calls "a kind of concerto for chamber orchestra," placing Hagans at the center of his Mark Masters Ensemble. The project evolved from a planned standards showcase into a cycle of nine original compositions, each designed to highlight Hagans' distinctive sound.

The Mark Masters Ensemble for this recording is a roll-call of West Coast jazz talent. Alongside Hagans, there is Nicole McCabe on alto sax, Jerry Pinter on tenor and soprano saxes, Dave Woodley on trombone, John Dickson on French horn, Jeff Colella on piano, Chris Colangelo on bass, and Kendall Kay on drums.

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The Stoic - Mark Masters Ensemble feat Tim Hagans
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While Hagans is the star, Masters is quick to point out that this is a collaborative effort. "Even though it's orchestral music, it's still improvised music," he says. The album features solos from nearly every member of the ensemble, from McCabe's alto on "Waxing and Waning" to Kay's drum work on "The Stoic" and "Velocity."

But it's Hagans' trumpet that ties it all together. His sound propels "The Stoic," plumbs depths in "Deep Pools," and gives a sharp jolt to the downtempo "Pebbles."

Masters' own personality shines through as well. "The Hammer" pays tribute to NFL great Fred Williamson, while "The Stoic" is a nod to Masters' own Midwestern reserve.

Sui Generis is marks Masters as one of jazz's singular voices who values the spirit of collaborative creativity. As he says, "spontaneity and surprises happen, and all you can do is smile and look at your fellow musicians and marvel."

Sui Generis is out October 4, 2024 on Capri Records.