The Next Step (Kurt Rosenwinkel album)

The Next Step is a studio album by American jazz guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel, released in 2001 on Verve Records. It features Rosenwinkel on guitar and piano, Mark Turner on tenor saxophone, Ben Street on bass, and Jeff Ballard on drums.

The album is noted for its complex harmonic structures, innovative rhythmic interplay, and Rosenwinkel's distinctive guitar tone and improvisational style. It is considered a seminal work in contemporary jazz, pushing the boundaries of the genre while retaining a strong connection to its traditions.

The Next Step comprises original compositions by Rosenwinkel, showcasing his skills as a composer and arranger. The tracks often feature intricate melodies and unconventional chord progressions. The album's title reflects Rosenwinkel's ambition to explore new musical territories and to advance the evolution of jazz guitar. It received critical acclaim upon its release and continues to be influential among jazz musicians and enthusiasts.