Beguiled

For some reason, marimba doesn't come across as something I think about a lot in the jazz arena... but in Gwendolyn's talented hands, you'll be amazed at the deep and rich textures she's able to paint on tunes like the opener, "Beija-flor", (penned by jazz bassist Rufus Reid)... one of the reasons (I believe) why this is so aurally attractive is because she takes a lot of time to develop the tune (it pegs in at 9:03). "G.W.G.E.", on the other hand, is totally in a jazz vein, and will capture your ears immediately (especially when the percussion kicks in)! The thing that makes this album so interesting is that it is a totally unique sound... you (definitely) won't hear Gwendolyn's style anywhere else - tasty and timely jazz, for sure. That originality is best reflected (for me, anyway) in my personal favorite of the seven long tracks offered up for your listening pleasure, the wonderfully illuminating "The Beacon Shines Bright"! I give this most intriguing release a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.98.