Jaana Narsipur: The Re-Collection

There are few things more revealing than the songs we hold close from our formative years. Jaana Narsipur on The Re- Collection opens her musical scrapbook of Brit-pop and adult contemporary staples, reimagining them as living, breathing jazz narratives. The result is an album that feels deeply personal without tipping into self-indulgence. Pianist and music director Nicki Adams has taken Narsipur's intricate arrangements and expanded them into expressive jazz frameworks, leaving ample room for improvisation. Other first-rate ensemble members include drummer-percussionist Joe Abba, tenor saxophonist Sean Nowell, trumpeter Wayne Tucker, bassist Marco Panascia, trombonist Alex Jeun, and a string trio comprising violinist Meg Okura, violist Hannah Selin, and cellist Laura Masferrer. Together, they give each track its own emotional environment.

The opener is Swing Out Sister's "Breakout," which arrives with a buoyant pop-funk groove as Narsipur develops the lyrics with soul- jazz confidence. The ensemble delivers crisp horn interplay, and trombonist Jeun offers a wonderful, cheeky solo. Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes" begins with a rubato introduction, and Abba's layered percussion opens the arrangement outward. Narsipur's vocal blooms organically, creating a hypnotic atmosphere. Adams offers a thoughtful interjection, enhancing the tune's intimate promise.

Simply Red's 1985 Elektra debut album, Picture Book, featured a number-one hit by the band's singer-songwriter, Mick Hucknall, "Holding Back The Years." Recast in 6/8, it becomes a slow-burning reflection, with Narsipur stretching the phrasing just enough to heighten the ache embedded in the lyrics. Tucker's solo is beautifully shaped, patient, and emotionally direct. Julie Fordham's "Behind Closed Doors" is rendered with tasteful delicacy. Adams' intimate approach to the keyboard suits this ballad. The subtle strings from Okura, Selin and Masferrer add a beautiful shading without overwhelming Narsipur's vocal.

U2's "With or Without You" opens with an ostinato for voice and bass that recurs throughout the piece. Abandoning its rock rhythm, Narsipur opts for a gentler jazz meditation. The piece sustains emotional tension beautifully through careful dynamic control. Joe Jackson's "You Can't Get What You Want" swings with infectious swagger, featuring punchy brass figures that keep the groove going and Narsipur's playful scatting, which never feels forced.

Closing with Sting's "Sister Moon," Narsipur wisely embraces darkness and space. Nowell's smoky tenor shadows her sultry phrasing, creating an atmosphere that lingers long after the final notes.