First Song

Sara Caswell, a young, Indiana-based violinist, makes a strong debut with First Song. Joining her are bassist Jack Helsley, drummer Steve Davis, and the remarkable pianist Lynne Arriale, with sister Rachel Caswell guesting on vocals. Beginning with an offhanded, almost free-form take of "Bemsha Swing," Caswell and her ensemble go on to offer varied readings of "Isfahan," "Speak Low," "When Sunny Gets Blue" (with "Giant Steps" changes in the bridge), and Jobim's "Useless Landscapes" (with vocal). Caswell penned "Anna's Song," a lilting waltz, and "The Fury," a rousing 12/8 finale. The two most inspired tracks, however, are Charlie Haden's "First Song" (played sans drums, and erroneously credited to Caswell on the back cover) and Dave Douglas' "Charms of the Night Sky," the title track from the famed trumpeter/composer's 1998 album. The latter, an extraordinarily haunting piece, originally featured the masterful violinist Mark Feldman. For Caswell to take a crack at it is therefore rather ambitious, and she holds up quite well; the dissonant melody is flattered by Caswell's instrument and her sister's wordless vocal in unison. Throughout, Caswell displays considerable technique, musical intelligence, and a genuine passion for her material. ~ David R. Adler, Rovi