Pianist Ellen Rowe leads a band with Ingrid Jensen/tp-fh, Andrew Bishop/ts-cl, Kurt Krahnke/b, Peter Siers/dr and guest Paul Ferguson/tb over a mix of tunes that exude a chamber jazz ensemble. Pieces such as “Circle of Life” and “Colindrinas de los Horcones” mix subdued piano with graceful woodwinds and brass floating over a softly rustling rhythm. A subtle drive on “Summit Dog” and the skipping “Calico Roses” reveal a bit more assertiveness, while Jensens horn yearns on “Leaves” and Bishop’s clarinet goes melancholy on ”If Time Stood Still.” A reading of Porter’s “All of You” slowly undulates, while the U of Michigan Chamber Jazz Ensemble adds texture to the closing “Gentle Spirit.” Soft and serene.
PKO Records