Spalding, Esperanza
Heads Up, 2010, CD
Instrument: Guitar
Issue: 16.3
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: This young lioness is no longer a surprise but an expected stellar performer on bass, vocals and as a composer. She incorporates a rich string section into this session adding depth to a strong outing. The harmony and vocalese on “Knowledge of Good and Evil” brought us into the composition. This chamber music has a lot of dynamics an improvisation. The use of percussion on “Chacarera”, one of the few covers, defines its character. Guest artists Milton Nascimento (vocals) and Ricardo Vogt (g) are featured on “Apple Blossom”. Gretchen Parlato teams up with Esperanza arranging and singing Jobim’s “Intil Paisagem”. Our favorite is “What A Friend”, a tune that takes you for a ride. Spalding continues to impress and conquer new space and making friends each step of the way!
Publicist: Telarc Jazz