Melissa Kassel & Tom Zicarelli Group: Moments

Take a little bit of cool jazz, add boldly inventive vocals at times distinctly rooted in the realm of free jazz, gently sprinkle with bebop solos here and there, and season with heartfelt lyrics. Mix until smooth. Enjoy Moments by Melissa Kassel and the Tom Zicarelli Group.

"I do not believe the studio always captures the essence of a live performance where everything is naturally spontaneous," Kassel notes. Yet, with this recording, she has undoubtedly achieved that goal. Melissa's deeply emotional and vulnerable voice intertwines with the soft and sophisticated accompaniment, leaving the aftertaste of unrestrained improvisational artistry. "My attitude towards vocalizing has always been to be myself and let it go," Kassel says. This ethos radiates through every track on Moments.

"Tom Zicarelli and I have been writing music together for many years, and I thought it was important to get it recorded," Kassel shares. "I am so lucky to be able to play music with such a wonderful and creative group of musicians." This collective energy and passion for musical adventure is evident across the album. Pianist Tom Zicarelli, trumpeter Phil Grenadier, bassist Bruce Gertz and drummer Gary Fieldman—all seasoned and renowned musicians—contribute to the impression of joint improvisation and creative mastery.

"I have been playing with Melissa for 30 years now; I always treasure our adventures in creating fresh, passionate, music together," Grenadier confirms. Throughout the recording, names like Fourplay, Freddie Hubbard, Wynton Marsalis, Basia, Bill Evans and even Schubert might come to mind. Each of the ten tracks gives the impression of an exploration of moods and textures, effortlessly blending the familiar with the unexpected. The title of the album speaks for itself. Moments like a morning breeze, a breath, or a twilight are always new and rejuvenating, no matter how many times one encounters them. "Playing music with Melissa is like a joy of singing experience. She and Tom have written some great songs that are perfect vehicles for all of us to express ourselves. That provides a spiritual experience we all crave," Bruce Gertz said. This quote seems to describe Moments perfectly well.