Kelsey Mines - Everything Sacred, Nothing Serious [CD]

With a wealth of wide-ranging experiences in jazz, classical and experimental music, it's no surprise that Seattle bassist, composer & vocalist Kelsey Mines' first recording in the modern jazz tradition would offer an interesting perspective, with evocative textures and surprising, inspired orchestrations. Between flutist Elsa Nilsson, trombonist Beserat Tafesse, pianist John Hansen, and Kelsey on bass and voice, melodic statements arrive in unpredictable combinations, creating a fluid momentum, helped along by the dynamic drumming of Machado Mijiga, with appearances from Danilo Silva on guitar and Jeff Busch on percussion. Rich harmonies and hard-hitting melodies are balanced by plaintive bass / flute duets or lush soundscapes, welcoming listeners into moods of reflection and peace. Produced with the assistance of her mentor, the renowned bassist/producer Steve Rodby, Mines has created an intriguing and special listening experience on this contemporary jazz debut. "…a free spirit with a strong, personal voice who can make the double bass dance playfully and rhythmically" - Eyal Hareuveni, salt peanuts* (Norway)