Album Notes

Searching for great ensemble vocal jazz recordings is quite a challenge, and much of the best music in the genre is recorded by collegiate groups such as the Down Beat award winning Sacramento State University Jazz Singers and C-Sus, both directed by Kerry Marsh. "In the Winelight", the latest CD from these groups, is an aggressive statement in ensemble vocal jazz, attempting to expand the boundaries by incorporating influences of not only the traditions of vocal jazz, but also contemporary instrumental jazz, funk, fusion, and pop.

The CD contains songs originally performed by saxophonists Kenny Garrett and Michael Brecker, jazz vocalists Dianne Reeves, Kurt Elling, and Lizz Wright, folk/pop artist Jonatha Brooke, as well as a couple standards an original composition by Kerry Marsh. The sound of the CD is lush and beautiful, with interesting and biting harmonies that both challenge and excite the ears. This CD earned both of the groups national awards for excellence from Down Beat magazine in 2005, one of the highest honors in jazz education. "In the Winelight" is well produced, as well, getting the most from the talented vocalists at Sacramento State.