Or
Bju, 2024
9/10
An artist with many talents, Tracy Yang is aligned with many musicians for a listen that’s full of intellectual and emotional depth via the 8 really involved pieces.
“Or (Operating Room)” starts the listen with Martha Kato’s fluid piano that complements Jim O’Connor’s animated trumpet, and “Scene Taiwan Collection” follows with 2 movements that involve Sebastian Noelle’s meticulous guitar and Ben Kono’s tenor sax prowess for the rich delivery.
The middle belongs to the dense “Melting Arctic”, where David Smith’s trumpet and Dave Pietro’s alto sax suit the ominous versus harmonic ideas, while “A Step To My Dream” is a brighter moment that benefits much from Mike Fahie’s soulful trombone and much melody.
The last selection, “MMXXI”, unfolds across 3 segments that swing and shake with an infectious energy via Alan Ferber’s trombone and Erena Terakubo’s alto sax versatility.
Originally from Taiwan, Yang left her country and studying of medicine behind. The songs here soundtrack her dreams, experiences and journeys in New York City, as she carves out a unique places for herself in the modern jazz world.
Travels well with: Yes! Trio- Springs Sings; The Neal Birkwood Big Band- Night City