Music and Jazz : An Able Delfeayo Marsalis at Jazz Bakery

Delfeayo Marsalis, the 27-year-old trombonist and composer, was in town during the weekend, leading a sextet Friday and Saturday at the Jazz Bakery.

What Branford and Wynton have accomplished for the saxophone and trumpet, the younger brother seems to have achieved on the trombone. His sometimes fierce, burning flurries at up-tempos contrast with a ballad personality that adjusts itself lyrically to “Misty” and “But Beautiful.”

This is the same band he led last summer at Catalina, except that Jason Marsalis was replaced by Martin Butler on drums and Mark Gross was added on alto sax. Both Gross and the tenor saxophonist Mark Turner are vigorous contemporary soloists.

Victor Atkins at the piano has perfected the art of combining a rhythmically powerful personality with touches of the blues and an ability to build to a climax of intensity. Gregory Williams on bass came across generally well, although at times Butler tended to drown him out.

“Nicodemus,” “Judas Iscariot” and “The Crucifixion,” all from Marsalis’ album “Pontius Pilate’s Decision,” were among the most convincing in several works heard Saturday that have established him as an original composer. Introducing the tunes, he displayed his customary warmth and good humor. He has mastered the art of offering significant and valid music without seeming to take himself too seriously.