Love Letter
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The multi-instrumentalist and composer Casey MacGill assembles songs that span many decades, but were recorded between 2019 and 2022, where few genres are off limits thanks to his diverse abilities.
The playful drumming and mesmerizing keys of “Nocturne” starts the listen with much warmth, as the bright brass enters with much soul, and it isn’t long until the frisky climate of “Summer Shade”, which is a smooth and melodic display of rich instrumentation.
Futher along, “Funk University” brings the funk in spades via the booming brass, while “Love Letter” is a romantic moment of piano balladry. Moving into disc 2, the cultured delivery of “San Gabriel” seems like it could soundtrack an adventure on a tropical island.
Inching towards the end, “Late Night Swing” will get you headed right for the dance floor thanks to the retro spirit, and “It’s Gonna Be A Long Long Time” exits with a demeanor that goes back even further and takes nods to ragtime fun.
A highly eclectic affair that touches on big band swing, Latin jazz, bossa nova and funky soul, plus many other ideas, MacGill is joined by 56 musicians for the occasion.
Travels well with: John Herberman- Spring Comes Early; Peripheral Vision- We’ve Got Nothing