Search - Jane Bunnett :: Embracing Voices

A Joyous Listening Experience!

A. Davis | Greenville, SC | 05/03/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What an excellent concept! Combine some great voices and rhythms from Cuba with some exceptional Soprano Sax and Trumpet from Canada, and you get a wonderful and joyous musical experience. Jane Bunnett has traveled this path before with excellent results. I have purchased and enjoyed her earlier works with Cuban musicians, but "Embracing Voices", adds a wonderful twist to this successful formula. This recording thrives and works on multiple levels. As exceptional Jazz, it embraces the mellow side of the John Coltrane and McCoy Tyner sound, while building on the exploratory vibe of Branford Marsalis. I can also here elements of Wayne Shorter in some of Jane's phrasings on the Soprano Saxophone. As a rich vocal album, the voices add a variety of textures and moods to highlight some great compositions. Kellylee Evans reminds me of early Diane Reeves with the way she is able to pull you deeper into the songs with her excellent voice and phrasings. Molly Johnson just rips the heart out of the beautiful melody on "If You Go Away" and Grupo Vocal Desandann add just the right amount of spice to create some tasty treats for your ears. Throughout this recording the rhythmic pulse is brick solid and provides a great backdrop for each composition to shine. Along with writing several of the compositions, Ms. Bunnett provides some exceptional Soprano and flute solos. Her command of both instruments is strong and very tasteful. This recording somehow reminded me of the great work that Wayne Shorter did with Milton Nascimento back in the late 1970's. There are no weak moments here, just some great music that fills my heart with joy. I admire Jane and her colleagues for putting together and sharing this musical treasure. With "Embraceable Voices" her stock is rising and her future is looking very bright. It is great to see her soar at these levels. Well done my sister!"