Album Notes

Poetry and jazz. Side by side.

That’s the format of both a typical Soul Café performance and of this, their 2nd CD. For “The Poetry of Jazz,” the trio of Laura Caviani (piano), Steve Blons (guitar) and Brad Holden (sax) are joined by vocalist, Lucia Newell. Sparkling renditions of Rodgers & Hart standards alternate with the love sonnets and odes of Pablo Neruda, one of the 20th century’s most beloved poets.

Soul Café jazz follows in the best tradition of ensemble improvisation. Lots of interaction and interplay. Steve, Brad and Laura will jump into each other’s solos or drop out to create duo or even solo sections. No bass, no drums, but lot’s of swinging music.

The music and the poetry play off each other, complement one another, give the listener even more to take in and enjoy. Recorded live in studio, “The Poetry of Jazz” recreates a typical Soul Café evening. Listen to it through your headphones, start to finish, no interruptions, to get the full impact.

For a review log onto JazzInk.com and click on Spotlight Artists on the first page.

And if you like what you hear, check out their debut CD, entitled simply “Soul Café.” Less poetry, but lot’s of great music. Also available here on CD Baby.