This 2cd set is a compilation of the recordings from vocalist and flutist Monday Michiru. She’s got the right dna, being the daughter of Charlie Mariano and Toshiko Akiyoshi (can you imagine the home lessons?!?). The music is a variety which includes electric soulful jazz a la The Crusaders, and a dash of pop-Brazilian in the vein of George Duke.
Her voice is guile-less and charming, with an easy going delivery that works well on R&B ish material such as “Dream of Tomorrow.” A dash of bands like Caldera is evoked on the upbeat crossover sounds of electric bass and keyboards on “Sometimes” and the world sounds of “Everything You Could Be.” She shoes a dash of blues on “Nexus Interlude” and an ability to get intimate with classical guitar support on “Just Be Good To Me.” Upbeat and optimistic in its soft flavors.