Bassist John Hebet leads a lithe team of Andy Milne/p, Billy Drumond/dr and vocalist Jen Shyu through an impressionistic mix of originals and standards. The rhythm team develops a subtle but forward pulse, with Drummond’s cymbals tapping out the relentless gallop under Shyu’s wordless vocals and lyrics on “September Song” and the floating “When You Love.” The post bop “Upbeat Down” drifts in and out of a groove, while haunting interplay between Hebert and Milne create a safety net for Shyu’s vulnerable voice. Much of the mood is subdued with dashes of melancholy, as on “Fool” and a haunting “Alfie,” while the team drifts inside and outside on Shyu’s almost subconscious and reflective singing on “Media Luna.” True to the title, the music does ramble, but it never veers off main course.
Sunnyside Records
www.sunnysiderecords.com