Summer Dusk
Self-Released, 2020
9/10
The 4th album in just 2 years from the Bay Area outfit FivePlay Jazz Quintet, Summer Dusk offers 9 originals penned by guitarist Tony Corman and pianist Laura Klein, where their contemporary jazz ideas welcome vocalist Clairdee, as well as a small handful of flutists, among others.
“Bright Golden Sunshine” starts the listen vocally strong as playful keys from Klein and drums from Jason Lewis complement the very harmonic setting, and “Lost And Found” follows with a very thoughtful approach where flutes add much to the dreamy quality that flows with much attention to detail. The title track and lone ballad is where Clairdee’s vocals shine bright as her soulful and expressive execution alone is worth the price of admission.
Near the middle, “Springhill Road” is a swift and creative offering with marching band style drumming and vibrant flutes amid a charming display of timeless jazz prowess, while “Once Upon A Time” enlists wordless vocals as the album highlight soars with soothing melody. “Sparks”, another strong track, then showcases Dave Tidball’s exceptional sax skills alongside Tony Corman’s sublime guitar lines.
“Evanessence” and “Divide Meadow” exit the listen, where the former move cautiously yet with a frisky delivery of universally enjoyable jazz ideas, and the latter recruits strategic clarinet from Tidball on the graceful finish.
FivePlay Jazz Quintet have been quite prolific in recent years, and if that pace continues you won’t hear me complaining as this is some exceptional modern jazz that draws you in immediately and leaves a lasting impression.
Travels well with: Dicosimo/Pagan- Con Moto; The Jeff Benedict Big Big Band- The Weather Is Here, Wish You Were Beautiful