2012-03-16
Detroit native jazz violinist Maureen Choi takes her quartet into a set of familiar standards and one original. Having a violin as the lead instrument helps tremendously so the covered-so-many-times songs such as "Caravan," "Sunny" and "'Round Midnight" feel fresh. The cover of the great Etta James tune "At Last" is exquisite. Applause is also due for the lone original here, "Alegria," which makes one interested in hearing more Choi tunes in the future. There aren't many jazz violinists playing lead these days--Regina Carter is the main exception to this--so it is pleasing to see a young artist begin a career using that special instrument in such talented ways. 03/12 Michael J. J-Contemporary (violin)THE JODI PROZNICK QUARTER
Foundations
ELIANE ELIAS
LIGHT MY FIRE
NATE NAJAR TRIO
I’m All Smiles
THE STANLEY CLARKE BAND
THE STANLEY CLARKE BAND
Various Artists
Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars
DUKE ROBILLARD & SUNNY CROWNOVER
TALES FROM THE TIKI LOUNGE
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