Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Eunmi Lee: Introspection
Eunmi Lee: Introspection
ByThe focus shifts to chamber jazz on "Suspicion," featuring a string trioviolin, viola and cellojoined by Vinicius Gomes on guitar and Ellis on bass clarinet, creating a dream sound that points to Lee's musical versatility. Lee says it was a trip outside her comfort zone, writing outside what she calls functional harmony.
"5:19" is another chamber jazz outinga refined and beautiful sound inspired by Lee's experience with finding new books, new foods and new people. At the same time "Narcissism" has a stealthy jazz groove inspired by Lee's ruminations on the possibility that all people have a bit of the personality trait they project via social media; Ferber's trombone and Remy Le Boeuf's saxophone do indeed hint at some healthy musical narcissism.
All tunes here were penned by Lee. Moods shift and ensemble interplay is top-notch. "Mr. Weird" has a whimsical feel and a near-big band delivery; the happiest tune of the set, it gives off an infectious groove with terrific horn harmony. "Wavelength" puts on displayafter showcasing chamber jazz and bigger band offeringsLee's skill at small ensemble writing. Employing just piano, guitar, bass and drums, she crafts a spare, gorgeous ballad that explores the concept of human compassion. "Azure" closes the set. Lee says it is the color of her heart. The tune is buoyant and hopeful, perhaps the most beautiful composition and arrangement of her debut.
Track Listing
Gimmick; Suspicion; 5.19; Narcissism; Mr. Weird; Wavelength; Azure.
Personnel
Eunmi Lee
pianoAlan Ferber
tromboneTony Kadleck
trumpetRemy Le Boeuf
saxophone, altoJohn Ellis
saxophone, tenorJon Gordon
saxophone, altoJoyce Hammann
violinMeg Okura
violinLois Martin
violaJody Redhage
celloMaria Jeffers
celloAri Hoenig
drumsMatt Clohesy
bassVinicius Gomes
guitarAlbum information
Title: Introspection | Year Released: 2023 | Record Label: You&Me Music
< Previous
The Vocal Music of Charles Mingus, Pa...
Next >
Live From the Jersey Pines