Dawn Comes Quietly
Gateway, 2020
8/10
A multi-instrumentalist who has been fronting her own band since 2007, Denmark’s Sarah Elgeti knows her way around a bass clarinet, tenor saxophone and flute, and she uses that impressive skill set to make some exceptional modern jazz with her backing band on Dawn Comes Quietly.
After the woodwind friendly and mysterious opening of “Magical Thinking”, “Whereto?” flows with flute prowess as elegant vocals from Sidsel Storm complement the sophistication.
Elsewhere, “Autumn” moves with a cinematic quality as the players interact with grace just as the vocals do, while “Crazy Destiny” picks up the pace into playful territory where Nils Raae pulls off a stunning harmonica performance in the blues tinted affair.
Back half highlights include the piano heavy balladry of “Introspection”, and “Snow” moves with classical influences amid an emotive atmosphere where Elgeti’s tenor soars. “Tit Er Jeg Glad” ends the listen with cautious rhythm and proficient flute from Elgeti in one of the 2 covers present where they make the reworking their own.
Even though some of the subject matter isn’t all that cheery, the music here is often uplifting, exceptionally beautiful and composed with much attention to detail from the always remarkable Elgeti.
Travels well with: Diane Moser- Birdsongs; Amber Weekes- Pure Imagination