Album Notes

The Rio Chama Trio (with Julie Stewart) is made up of an exceptional group of musicians. Marc Rosen plays clarinet, Brian Fitzgerald plays piano, Lenny Tischler is on bass, and Julie Stewart lends us her wonderful vocals.

These artist make sure that the music has a very open, spacious feel. They don't try to fill up every empty space; they let the music breathe. This music is strongly melodic, with a real emphasis on the tune itself. It is pretty much "inside" playing, but it is passionate and emotional, so it is not boring. Each of the musicians brings their own unique contribution. With no percussion, the bass becomes the rhythm section, both harmonically and rhythmically, and Lenny never lets the group go astray. Brian brings a unique approach on the piano, sounding at times like Dave Brubeck, at other times like Tommy Flannigan, but always like himself. He has a wonderful touch and plays with great sensitivity and dynamic feel. Julie is a fascinating singer. She's been singing blues and rock for years; this is her first turn at jazz, but you'd never know it. Her pitch is precise, and her sense of time is impeccable. The emotional depth she brings to each song is a joy to hear. Marc brings a playful, sensual feel to the clarinet with a very expressive tone.

Those that have heard this music describe this CD in terms such as "fun and accessible jazz"; "really enjoyable, with a variety of emotion and great playing"; "a real gem, surprisingly moving music".