Mystical Way

Description

It has become evident with Claire Michael: the shadow of John Coltrane is never far from the saxophonist. An admirer of the "angry young man" of the 50s in her previous albums, the jazzwoman now expresses her penchant for the spirituality of the creator of Love Supreme. In "Mystical Way" (Blue Touch/UVM Distribution), Claire Michael pours out her soul and breath. To reach these heights, the multi-instrumentalist draws on her entire sound palette, including tenor, alto, and soprano saxophones, flute, and her own voice. It is well known that no jazz success is achieved alone. Our artist can count on two pillars, loyal and creative friends, Jean-Michel Vallet (piano, keyboards) and Patrick Chartol (double bass and electric bass guitar). There is no real celebration either—this music does not yield to pathos—without guests. Here we find familiar faces from the South American universe that these three musicians cherish without borders or blinders: two figures from the Brazilian scene, drummer Zaza Desiderio (elastic pulse) and, with a twinge of heartache, trombonist Raul de Souza (1934-2021), for his final recording with the composition that closes the album, "L’instant du bonheur." Happiness is the theme throughout this great hour of sharing and generosity, to which violinist David Olivier Paturel (featured on one track) and one of the new stars of the trumpet, Hermon Mehari, contribute their voices (and echoes). With "Mystical Way," Claire Michael (and her accomplices) invites us on a musical journey where freedom contends with emotion.