Seven standout tunes heard this afternoon:
Chill
- Paradox-Nina Young (A steady midtempo beat and compelling vocals with echo propel this track.)
Luna
- Sierra Madre-Dave Valentin (Vibrant, upbeat jazz flute.)
Mosaic
- Be OK-Ingrid Michaelson (A frank acknowledgment that life takes its toll on everyone, and sometimes, you're just trying to get through the day.)
Real Jazz
- Moanin'-Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers (The compellingly sung Lambert, Hendricks & Ross rendition comes to mind first when I think of this tune, but this is Blakey's composition, which his band pulled off impressively. The first 10 notes make up one of the most memorable jazz themes.)
Smokey's Soul Town
- I'll Be Good To You-The Brothers Johnson (Instant atmosphere, from the opening notes. Also recommended: "Strawberry Letter 23.")
The Village
- Timberland-Tommy Emmanuel (A gripping downcast guitar instrumental.)
Watercolors
- Free To Be-Kim Scott (Sunny smooth jazz flute.)
