Horns of Hope
Aimee-Jo Benoit; The New Assembly
Chronograph Records (chronographrecords.com/releases/horns-of-hope)
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Calgary-based jazz vocalist/composer, Aimee-Jo Benoit has just released her sophomore recording – a compelling, highly creative collection of music that is a joyous celebration of some of her most seminal influences including songs from Canadian luminaries kd lang, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Daniel Lanois and Sarah Harmer. Benoit’s voice is a warm, rich, sonorous instrument – and like a fine violin, and through her masterful communication skills, she is capable of transporting the listener to any emotional plateau desired. Joining Benoit on this exceptional recording are a fine Calgary-based ensemble, including arranger Carsten Rubeling on trombone, Mark De Jong on tenor saxophone and trombone, Andre Wickenheiser on trumpet and a tight rhythm section comprised of bassist Jon Wielebknowski, keyboardist Augustine Yates and drummer Dan Gaucher.
The eight-track programme (including one original from Benoit) kicks off with Barefoot, filled with powerful horn lines, dynamic rhythms and a pitch-pure, velvet-like vocal, which wraps itself around every part of lang’s lyrical poetry, and Rubeling’s innovative and stirring horn-infused arrangement is nothing short of magnificent. A dynamic solo from Wickenheiser is a highlight, as well as the stripped-down coda.
Other delights include a refreshing take on Mitchell’s Little Green, infusing the tune with jazz elements that would delight Mitchell. Goucher’s gorgeous bass work holds this beautiful tune lovingly in his hands. Harmer’s notable You Were Here is presented in the stark resonance of De Jong on baritone, eventually joined by the full ensemble. Benoit sails through and above everything – gracing all with a brush of the wings of her magnificent voice, her skills and her taste.
