A Time of New Beginnings

With countless jazz CDs of original material by young, up-and-coming artists, jazz journalists and broadcasters can feel overwhelmed trying to uncover the gems among them. But composer/arranger Chie Imaizumi's ability to attract commissioned works and top players to perform her music gives her an edge, as she has been endorsed by veteran musicians. Randy Brecker is featured on flugelhorn in her turbulent "Information Overload," powered by its infectious vamp and spirited ensembles. The emotional ballad "Fear of the Unknown" showcases John Clayton's majestic, singing arco bass along with his precise pizzicato playing. "Sharing the Freedom" is a moving work commissioned by the U.S. Air Force Academy's Falconaires to be played at the 2008 Monterey Jazz Festival. Beginning with a gorgeous hymn-like introduction, it evolves into a peppy soulful setting with great solos by Clayton and alto saxophonist Steve Wilson. The humorous finale is "Fun and Stupid Song," blending Latin rhythms with unpredictable shifts and strong solos, with Scott Robinson being showcased on both sopranino and tenor sax. The future looks very bright for the talented Chie Imaizumi.