Unbreakable Hope & Resilience
Soundspore, 2026
9/10
Listen to Unbreakable Hope & Resilience
The pianist and 6 time Grammy nominated producer, Migiwa ‘Miggy’ Miyajima, turns personal testimony into a large ensemble effort here, where 13 songs utilize a 17 piece big band.
The cozy “Intro 1” opens with Ryan Keberle’s soulful trombone and Megan Masako Haley’s spoken word drawing us in, and “Where Is My Home?” follows with Tim Horner’s acrobatic drumming and Ashton Muniz’s well timed vocals populating the engaging 8+ minutes.
Geting close to the middle, “A Step For Tomorrow” welcomes Jason Jackson’s well timed trombone amid Migiwa Miyajima’s elegant piano, while “I Will Make A Change” offers a lush and thoughtful climate, where Carl Maraghi’s soulful sax, Gina Benalcázar Lopez’s warm bass trombone and Martha Kato’s mature keys won’t go unnoticed.
Deeper yet, “Life Is Good” enlists Evan Amoroso’s trombone and Stuart Mack’s trumpet for the infectious energy, and “Fourteen Springs” exits with Haley’s flawless singing and Rachel Therrien’s cozy trumpet tugging on the heartstrings.
A record that weaves in and out of devastation, memory, grief and perseverance, the cinematic qualities and emotional appeal of the 72 minutes that was recorded live at Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center is truly a big band effort like none other.
Travels well with: Lakecia Benjamin- We Dream; Gustavo Cortiñas- The Drum Also Sings