Midnight Bloom
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
Singer Miki Purnell returns with a sophomore album where she explores themes around the wonders of nature at night with an all star cast on hand, including Tamir Hendelman and Bob Sheppard.
“(There Ought To Be A) Moonlight Saving Time” starts the listen with upbeat and playful swing jazz sounds alongside Purnell’s charming vocals, and “Embraceable You” follows with elegant and warm sounds as flutes contribute to the formula.
Near the middle, “Quiet Now” has Purnell’s vocals getting especially expressive, while “Love Dance” recruits strong guitar work from Pat Kelley on the busy, melodic highlight.
Deeper tracks bring us the romantic ballad “Solitary Moon”, the horn friendly “Wrap Your Troubles In Dreams”, and the sparse, radiant beauty of “Stars (Endless Stars)”. The title track ends the listen with strong keys on the emotive and soaring exit
An artist born and raised in Hiroshima, Purnell got an early start with classical music before discovering jazz in college. Though music was set aside while she pursued her career as a doctor, this 2nd strong record proves that the songstress is in top form with her timeless vocal prowess.
Travels well with: Coniece Washington- Shades Of Shirley Horn; Carolyn Lee Jones- Close Your Eyes