Plenty of young musicians show promise, but very few enjoy the sort of meteoric rise that pianist, key­boardist and composer James Francies is currently experiencing. At only 23, he’s played with jazz head­liners like Pat Metheny, Chris Potter, Jeff “Tain” Watts, and Stefon Harris. At the same time, he’s amassed equally impressive credits in hip–hop and R&B: gigs with Ms. Lauryn Hill, José James, Common, and Nas; studio time on Chance the Rapper’s GRAMMY Award–winning hit “No Problem,” and appearances with The Roots on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” alongside mentor and friend Questlove. Flight is the extraordinary debut album that welcomes James Francies to the storied Blue Note label, its eleven tracks showcasing his singular blend of jazz mastery and pop experience. Francies says that his experiences outside of jazz have helped him with concepts like “assembling sounds, consistency, delivery and the ability to support” – and the result is Flight, a dynamic, ultramodern jazz recording that entertains from start to finish. Come celebrate the release of Flight tonight, only at Jazz Standard!   James Francies – piano Chris Turner – vocals Kate Keyes – vocals YEBBA – vocals  Ben Wendel – saxophone  Gilad Hekselman – guitar  Burniss Travis – bass  Kendrick Scott – drums