Stardust Crystals
Unit, 2020
8/10
A Switzerland based songstress, Yumi Ito pens a big band album here for an 11 piece outfit, where neo-classical, art-pop, progressive and jazz ideas unfold with a very precise yet playful delivery.
The album leads with title track, where Ito’s pretty pipes guide the emotionally stirring atmosphere that’s string friendly and cinematic, and “Little Things” follows with vocal acrobatics as graceful, orchestral ideas enter a very elegant setting of meticulous song craft.
In the middle, “Ballad For The Unknown” benefits from moody violin as warm vibraphone helps illuminate the sublime beauty, while “Unwritten Stories” glides with pop melodies amid a frisky jazz spirit that recruits bass clarinet from Enrique Oliver as well as exciting wordless vocals.
The final two tracks are among the best, and include "When The Lights Go Down”, where a dreamy execution unfolds with deft saxophone prowess, and “Spaziergang in Prag” exits the listen heavily textured with plenty of cultural influences that collide with an inventive and creative approach.
Ito has a knack for intimate and versatile songwriting, and these 8 very eclectic originals showcase a unique talent that will draw the listener in immediately.
Travels well with: Benny Sings- City Pop; Ganna Gryniva- Dykyi Lys