Pianist Laura Caviani’s second Igmod album spotlights her burgeoning talents as a composer and interpreter of stimulating jazz tunes. With her core trio (bassist Bob Bowman and drummer Todd Strait) and guests (guitarists Danny Embrey and Rod Fleeman, and vocalist Karrin Allyson), Caviani trades the hard-driving New-Yorkish forays of her debut album for soft-edged, warm and bluesy straightahead expressions. Highlights among 11 standards and originals include kickers such as “Fast Track” (reminiscent of 1970s Ramsey Lewis), a bracing quartet version of “If I Should Lose You” (featuring Embrey), a groovin’ version of Bobby Timmons’ “Moanin'” (showcasing Caviani’s inspired improvs and Fleeman’s Montgomery-like licks), and Caviani’s original, “The Bottom Line,” which captures Allyson’s sparkling scatting/vocals and the leader’s versatile comping. Caviani delivers stunningly-fresh solo piano versions of the Monk warhorse, “Well You Needn’t,” and a churchy version of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.” Definitely a talent to watch, Caviani continues to enchant listeners with her knockout chops.
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