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)DIZZY GILLESPIE ALL STAR BIG BAND
I'm BeBoppin' Too
Joel Harrison
Spirit House
Various Artists
Upstairs at Larry's: Lawrence Welk Uncorked
RACHEL ZAMSTEEN
Bouquet
Kevin Hays
Open Range
THE CLAUDIA QUINTET
Royal Toast
The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.