Bellflower

The always impressive trumpeter and vocalist Jun Iida presents songs that surround his move from Seattle to New York 3 years ago, and he's got an all star cast for the 10 contemporary jazz tunes.

"Rivers And Bridges" starts the listen with Chris McCarthy's warm keys alongside Iida's rich trumpet across the layered climate, and "Hotaru Nights" follows with Giulio Xavier Cetto's playful bass plucking before the animated horn enters.

"Marco The Phoenix" occupies the middle spot and showcases Takafumi Nikaido's frisky congos that complement the rhythmic album highlight, while "Will They Remember?" enlists Zelda Harris' vocals for the unpredictable and soulful dynamics of a busy yet meticulous delivery.

"Chasing Peace" and "Bellflower" exit the listen. The former is intimate and heartfelt thanks to Iida's emotive trumpet and the dreamy keys, and the latter allows for Masami Kuroki's radiant guitar to shine in a melodic and cozy finish.

Iida's last effort, Evergreen, was excellent, and this equally great follow up is full of beauty, intellect and grooves, where a personal journey makes for an engaging and touching record.