Maria Grand: Magdalena

The intimate and personal Magdalena is tenor saxophonist Maria Grand's second release as a leader. On it she fleshes out the ideas explored on her dynamic debut EP, Tetrawind (Biophilia, 2017). Sandwiched between two spoken-word tracks, the recording showcases Grand's skills as a vocalist, instrumentalist and composer.

Singer Jasmine Wilson recites Grand's verse with emotive eloquence on the opening "La Immortal." Grand plays her sax with contemplation while drummer Jeremy Dutton's rustling percussion enhances the dramatic mood.

Rapper Amani Fela articulates another one of Grand's poems, "Ejes y deseos," with suave elegance and poignant emotion. Grand leads the quartet, comprised of Dutton, bassist Rashaan Carter and pianist David Bryant in a simmering and angular performance. The overlapping music and narration create a provocative and moving conclusion to the superb album.

Grand's writing and improvisational chops are best heard on the three-part suite about transcultural feminine myths. A continuum dedicated to seminal women in religion from Isis to Magdalena, the work also highlights the impressive synergy among the core trio members. "T1: Isis" interweaves Carter's muscular bass, Dutton's rumbling vamps and Grand's warm, mordant tenor into a soulful and erudite sonic tapestry.

Grand opens "TII: Maria" with a forlorn, unaccompanied solo. Her musings become denser and solidify around her sidemen's spontaneous and dissonant rhythmic refrains. The group's sound becomes fiery and the interplay among the musicians ardent without losing its cerebral edge. Mystical and undulating "TIII: Magdalena" is a sad and pensive melody that Carter's lyrical and graceful extemporization bisects. Dutton's cymbal splashes and Grand's long and wistful lilt add a layer of intrigue to the piece.

Bryant joins the trio for the cinematic "Where is E" dedicated to Grand's estranged sister. His virtuoso crystalline phrases have bluesy hints that Grand echoes in her reserved wails. Their duet is filled with sublime melancholy.

Grand joins another pianist, Fabian Almazan, for a vibrant song "Imani/Walk By." Her expressive voice and Almazan's expansive lines create an impressionistic and romantic atmosphere.

Grand also sings two short, yet haunting, tunes, accompanied by guitarist Mary Halvorson. Both "Last Year" and "Sing Unborn" have an ethereal feel and a serene passion thanks to Halvorson's unique style and Grand's tender and stirring vocals.

Magdalena is a captivating and memorable record. It is an auspicious early success in Grand's already brilliant career and, hopefully, a portent of greater artistic accomplishments in the future.

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