The Ecstasy Of Love
Self-Released, 2026
9/10
The vocalist Michael Moody puts his talents to use across these 12 intimate jazz songs that welcomes Paul Bollenback and Neal ‘Sugar’ Caine.
“The Nearness Of You” gets the listen off to a cozy start, where Moody’s heartfelt voice benefits from Bollenback’s soft guitar, and “Embraceable You” follows with rich guitar and smooth singing thanks to the Gershwin tune.
Halfway through, “Ghost Of A Chance” allows for Caine’s meticulous bass lines to radiate amid the flawless vocals, while “Body And Soul” emits beauty, grace and poetic singing via the Johnny Green original.
“You’ve Changed” arrives later and carries some heartache, and “Old Rugged Cross” exits with ambience and strong attention to mood across the gospel classic.
Moody’s voice is so remarkable, this entire album could be a cappella and we’d still be enthralled, but thankfully the strategic use of bass and guitar adds even more allure to the melodic, solo filled and flexible, romantic setting.
Travels well with: Pat Petrillo- Contemporaneous; Mitch Towne- Refuge