Monika Herzig's Sheroes: All in Good Time

Time waits for no woman. In terms of the importance of creating an ensemble to promote and empower female musicians, pianist Monika Herzig came to that realization back in 2014. So she did what was needed, gathering a band of Sheroes to deliver music and message to the people. Now, ten years later, Herzig can look back with pride on what she's created, celebrate the present with this group's fourth record, and contemplate the future for a band that's had an undeniable impact on the jazz landscape.

All In Good Time proffers ten strong selections and offers many an opportunity to appreciate a tight yet malleable outfit. Flutist Jamie Baum, trombonist Reut Regev, guitarist Leni Stern and drummer Rosa Avila return, offering a sonic bridge from past dates, and tenorist/vocalist Camille Thurman and bassist Gina Schwarz make for welcome additions to the ranks. Opening on the slick, straight-time funk of the title track, Herzig doles out electric glaze in praise of Chick Corea. Thurman throws down on saxophone, the front line makes good on beauty in blend, and the Schwarz-Avila rhythm team cements things on the ground floor. That simmering entry point gives way to a swampy hang with the NOLA-inspired "Parade of Sadness." Referencing the duality of sorrow and joy connected to the city's funeral processions and second-line experiences while also dosing the proceedings with mysticism, Herzig shows off different sides of her personality in motion.

The leader's originals logically make up the bulk of the program, as five more appear across the program—the straight flowing "PC" (for "post-covid,"), time-twisting "Make It Count" and Baum showcase "Jamie's Song" among them. But two Schwarz-penned pieces and a surprising cover also find their way into the mix. "Behind," featuring a tricky unison line out front and an authoritative Regev solo as the first spotlight, proves riveting, and "Palermo Chico" bounds aloud and proud. Both numbers highlight the bassist's gifts in written expression and her generosity toward her fellow musicians. Herzig's lively and unique take on Beyoncé's "Run the World (Girls)," offering a dose of the familiar in a new frame, looks outward and speaks volumes about wide reach and wider messaging. A decade after its launch, Monika Herzig's Sheroes remains as vital as ever.

Comments