By Esther Callens
The ultimate in avant-garde jazz is found in (R)anthems, the latest offering by four guys who go by the moniker Spoke. First off, you are probably wondering (just as I was) — what’s up with the album title? Let me explain.
The quartet states “(R)anthems is both musical rant and anthem. Unlike most rants, this one is deeply steeped in fun, spiced with Salsa, and sizzling with Pop.” This description alone is enough to get fingers popping and hips swaying. Long story short — Spoke has produced a wonderful collection that includes a few priceless interpretations.
Track Listing: Ranthem; Tell Me Something Good; Invisible Lady; Blackbird; The Shanghai Salsa; Shepherd; I Only Have Eyes For You; Cancion Para Mi Madre; Clube Da Esquina; Move; Pure Imagination; Worry Later.
Album personnel: Andy Hunter, trombone; Justin Wood, alto saxophone, flute; Dan Loomis, contrabass; Danny Fischer, drums; Ito Arguinzoni, congas (5, 8).
“Big Island’s Jazz Goddess” Maggie Herron is a proven vocalist extraordinaire. Her sophomore release, Good Thing certainly lives up to its title and literally knocks fans off their feet. It is quite impressive.
Maggie Herron possesses vocals that are the epitome of sultry. She is a rarity in today’s jazz scene and a welcome change from the standard. She has been a fixture in Hawaii’s music scene for some twenty plus years. Luckily for aficionados the Aloha state has final decided to share this accomplished entertainer. On Good Thing, Herron covers a few originals with some remarkable tunes from the Great American Songbook. She is a proven jewel with an illuminating future.
Track Listings: Things Could Be Better; The Very Thought of You; Je T’aimerais; Straighten’ Up and Fly Right; Cake; Woodstock; You Call It Madness I Call It Love; Good Thing; Baby Baby All the Time; The More I See You; Moon River; Le Printemps est Arrive’; Body and Soul.
