Bassist/composer Linda Oh put out an impressive debut disc not too long ago, and this followup has some moments when she sounds like she could be a major voice for jazz’s future. She leads a band her with Dayna Stephens/ts, Fabian Almazan/p, Rudy Royston/dr and Jen Shyu/voice through a collection of (mostly) originals. A few of the songs have the intricate/angular edginess that mixes indie rock and post bop jazz, such as “Ultimate Persona” which, while technically adroit, leaves one a bit cold. What is most impressive is how she uses space on the more milder tunes, such as “Deeper Than Sad” and Ellington’s “Come Sunday.” Stephen’s tenor rolls in like the Morro Bay fog on these pieces, while gentle and sparkling sounds allow the piece to slowly creep into your ears through osmosis. These calmer, more personal pieces, are worth the price of the ticket.
Greenleaf Music