How Love Begins
Outside In, 2023
8/10
The powerful jazz singer Nicole Zuraitis pens a romantic listen that utilizes the ‘opposites attract’ idea, where the originals are handled by an all-star cast of players plus some special guests.
“The Good Ways” opens the 10 tracks with Zuraitis’ twinkling keys and soulful voice alongside Gilad Hekselman’s spirited guitar and Dan Pugach’s frisky drums, and “Travel” follows with Christian McBride’s skilled bass and backing vocals from Sonica making for a dreamy presence of beauty.
The middle spot belongs to the playful bass and charming vocal acrobatics of “Burn”, while “Two Fish” welcomes David Cook on piano for the intimate and warm display of timeless jazz qualities.
Close to the end, “20 Seconds” has Zuraitis handling Rhodes for the rich and melodic album highlight, and “The Garden” exits with an emotive and eloquent finish that illustrates Zuraitis’ diverse pipes.
Zuraitis explores many facets to love here, both the joyous and the difficult, and it’s a universally relatable affair that allows her inimitable singing to keep us engaged from beginning to end.
Travels well with: The Adam Larson Trio- With Love, From Kansas City; Alex Weitz- Rule Of Thirds