This is the second album I’ve heard by composer/conductor Christine Jensen, and it’s just as impressive as her initial Treelines from a few years ago. This one is quite ambitious, with just six songs, and most of them clocking in from 10-15 minutes. The songs are filled with harmonically intriguing brass and reed sections delivering various moods and atmospheres, with lyrical solos tastefully interspersed. Framing a rich bari solo by Samuel Blais is some fascinating chorale work on “Blue Yonder” that melds swinging rhythms with 21st century sounds, while Chet Doxas’ tenor on “Nishiyuu” is draped with fragrant brass and reeds flowing back and forth. Subtle trickles percolate under “Treelines” while Afro-Peruvian exotic grooves simmer during “Blue Yonder.” Fans of Maria Schneider are going to have a kindred spirit here.
Justin Time Records