The music is deeply textured and exists in a multi-layered state emphasizing certain characters in the music especially trumpeter Ingrid Jensen while keeping the music focused on the ensemble as a whole. “Arbutus" has the group together as a unit with their shine building to an interior crescendo, before throttling back to a light nimble section.
Using a lush palette of sounds and instruments available, Jensen is able to produce admirable dynamism and coherence to the combinations she chooses. “Red Cedar" opens with a bass solo and brushes, gradually adding space for the music to breathe organically and free the horns, especially the trumpet, which solos framed by the arrangement. “Western View" has a medium tempo developing a slower texture. The sound is slow and patient, almost reverent, before developing an anthemic frame, like a fanfare for nature.
“Dropoff" evokes a feeling of wonder, like a young bird being released from the next to fly for the first time. The ensemble playing offers a sense of continual movement with majestic writing and playing. A fragile trumpet interlude develops into a full fledged statement as the centerpiece. “Dark and Stormy Blues" features horns weaving in and out at a medium tempo, them a lightning fast shift to electric bass and trumpet.
Not to be outdone, another shift brings in electric guitar and horns, keeping things nice and tight for a fine payoff. This was a well done large ensemble jazz album. The writing and arranging were continually interesting and the ensemble and solo playing were admirable throughout.
