Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra: Golden Lady: CJRO featuring Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield

Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra is one of the premier jazz ensembles in the region featuring top-tier musicians dedicated to honoring and expanding the jazz tradition. Golden Lady is a vibrant fusion of jazz, R&B, and gospel. The project also features original compositions, including Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield's "Metamorphosis," "Hold Tight" by Bob Reynolds (a member of Snarky Puppy), and Jared Cathey's "Red Cedar Road."

The project bursts open with "Hold Tight," an up-tempo, big band celebration radiating with energy. Driven by bright horns, saxophones, trumpets, and organ, the track moves with irresistible momentum. The rhythm section anchors the groove, while the horn arrangements command attention setting the perfect tone for the project's lively spirit. Bob Reynolds is featured on saxophone and shines on his performance. "Golden Lady" the title track, is a graceful reinterpretation of Stevie Wonder's 1973 classic (Tamla), and Jill Scott's "Golden." Mayfield's voice floats effortlessly, honoring Wonder's original while imprinting her own warmth and subtle jazz phrasing. The track is arranged by Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra artistic director Drew Zaremba. "Side Step" opens with an organ-synth groove and a layered horn melody that intertwines harmoniously. A sharp fluid guitar solo by Mike Abbott steps forward mid-track, lending edge and character to the piece. The rhythm sections balance one another beautifully showcasing the ensemble's precision and interplay. Solos are by Zach Rich on trombone and Drew Zaremba on alto flute.

"Dreamcatcher" glides in with a medium-tempo, soulful rhythm and Mayfield's distinctively smooth vocals. Her tone is both tender and assured, surrounded by lush background harmonies and a vibrant flute solo by REMI LE BOEUF that sparkles at just the right moment. The mellow bass and soft horns give the track a warm, relaxed feel. It is a standout in both groove and emotion. In "Metamorphosis," Mayfield, with her velvety voice, explores change and transformation through a soulful R&B foundation led by a rich organ line. Her lyrics resonate with confidence and reflection, and her scatting near the end highlights her vocal mastery. A trumpet solo by Jonathan Powell soars over the groove before the tempo shifts, taking the listener through an exhilarating musical evolution. "Red Cedar Road" opens with an inviting horn section that slides into a swinging rhythm. The trumpet and tenor saxophone exchange brilliant improvisations, each voice complementing the other in spirited musical conversation. The drums provide texture and drive, propelling the song into one of the project's most infectious moments.

"It's Whatever" slows the pace slightly offering a romantic and carefree love song that radiates ease. Mayfield's vocal phrasing is tender and unforced. Matched by trumpet solo by Shane Endsley that serenades with charm and warmth. The song's tone is intimate, embodying the effortless side of love that "just is." "Living All Alone" is a mid tempo ballad that showcases Mayfield's emotional range. Her voice carries both strength and vulnerability, supported by electric rhythm guitar and smooth background vocal harmonies. The result is soulful, modern, and deeply expressive.

"Tundra" stands out as an instrumental gem, opening with delicate piano before expanding into a full horn and rhythm section arrangement. A lively piano solo by Eric Gunnison and a dynamic drum feature by Colin Campbell bring both fire and finesse. The track closes gently leaving a sense of calm reflection. "You'll Never Get To Heaven (if you break my heart)" closing the project is a joyful, upbeat rendition of the Dionne Warwick's classic. Composed by Burt Bacharach and lyrics by Hal David. The saxophone shines, and Mayfield's vocals and harmonies lift the arrangement into spirited finale. The horn section is superb, and the performance ends with spectacular, jazzy flourish that perfectly encapsulates the project's balance of tradition and freshness.

Golden Lady is a masterclass in artistry and collaboration. Mayfield brings grace, passion, and musical intelligence to every track. The project moves seamlessly from bold, brassy swing to tender soul reflections, all while showcasing the technical brilliance of the band. Every note feels intentional and every lyric sincere.

With Golden Lady, Mayfield does not just perform; she invites listeners into her world of warmth, rhythm, and transformation. It is a record that lingers long after the final chord fades, reminding us why great jazz endures and evolves.

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