The Yelena Eckemoff Quintet's latest album, Blooming Tall Phlox, is a stunning showcase of the group's musical prowess and Eckemoff's incredible talent as a composer and pianist. The album features a range of jazz styles, from contemplative ballads to upbeat, swinging tunes, all infused with the group's unique blend of classical and folk influences.
The title track, "Blooming Tall Phlox," sets the tone for the album with its delicate, ethereal melody and intricate piano work. Other standout tracks include "Cottonwood Tree," a lively tune with a catchy horn riff, and "Dancing with Shadows," a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases Eckemoff's emotional depth as a composer.
Throughout the album, the musicians' virtuosity shines through, with each member of the quintet contributing their own unique voice to the group's sound. The interplay between the instruments is particularly impressive, with the horn section adding rich layers of texture to Eckemoff's intricate piano lines.