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)INARA GEORGE WITH VAN DYKE PARKS
An Invitation
New Birth Brass Band
New Birth Family
DON BRADEN & KARL LATHAM
Big Fun(k) Live
MSMW
Out Louder
Various Artists
Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars
THE FFFELLAZ
4 Song EP
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