Entre Amigos: Joyful Foundation

Joyful Foundation is a near-perfect name for the third album by Entre Amigos, wherein the Chicago-based quartet welcomes aboard one of the jazz world's rising stars, trumpeter Justin Copeland, to play—naturally—The Music of Justin Copeland on an album whose upbeat posture and sunny disposition help make it utterly charming and highly listenable.

There is, of course, much more here than cheerfulness alone to digest and appreciate. For one thing, Copeland's compositions—he wrote four of the album's eight numbers—are for the most part luminous and seductive, as are those of Entre Amigos, each of whom composed one. (An exception is drummer Gustavo Cortiñas' raucous closer, "Valley of 1000 Devils," which lacks the vibrance and geniality of the seven previous numbers). For another, the level of musicianship is high, collectively and individually, which leads to seamless group interplay and admirable solos by all hands.

And speaking of solos, pianist Hana Fujisaki is a real star in that area, fashioning some keen and dazzling statements, especially on her buoyant composition, "Probability." Copeland's is another strong and persuasive solo voice, as is that of Entre Amigos' lone horn, saxophonist Roy McGrath. Cortinas and bassist Kitt Lyles also have their shining moments, and make the most of every chance. "Probability" is sandwiched between the opening number, Copeland's smooth and pleasant "Ride," and the trumpeter's nimble and rhythmic "Fleeting Magic."

The tempo slows on McGrath's pensive "Fue Nuestro," leading to Copeland's gospel-shaded title song, on which McGrath plays soprano sax (as he does on "1000 Devils"). Copeland's sleek and amiable "Clear Moments" and Lyles' gentle "Remembrance" round out the handsome program. As noted, a genial session whose warmth and cheerful persona make it well worth a listener's time and consideration.