Monika Herzig - Eternal Dance (2020) [Official Digital Download]

Sisterhoods have been steadily moving toward the forefront of the jazz scene. Elevated by purpose and promise, and upholding the virtues of equality and community, these sororities have become a substantial force in the music today. Monika Herzig, a thoughtful composer and inventive pianist, has become a key figure in the movement toward enlightenment.

To take the message into the studio and out on the road, Herzig has assembled an all-star band of greats - "Sheroes" as she likes to call them - who selflessly work together in presenting a judicious blend of covers and originals. Leni Stern's guitar helps to frame each song in the proper light; cellist Akua Dixon adds varicolored hues in her appearances; bassist Jennifer Vincent and drummer Rosa Avila (along with guest percussionist Mayra Casales) form a flexible unit capable of buttressing with strength and sensitivity; Lakecia Benjamin's alto shines in its flights; while the flute-trombone partnership of Jamie Baum and Reut Regev proves to be a match made in heaven.

With Herzig's pen and piano serving as the ties that bind, this declaration of unity truly delivers. All hail the conquering Sheroes.

Tracklist:
1. We Are the Champions (5:54)
2. Eternal Dance (7:00)
3. Dear Geri (7:05)
4. Rabbit (5:02)
5. Fly High (6:41)
6. We Can Be (S)Heroes (5:01)
7. Fall in Reading (8:04)
8. Seas of Change (6:23)
9. Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child (5:33)
10. Up in the Sky (6:59)
11. Memories of Petra (3:14)
12. Hymn for Justice and Understanding (Bonus Track) (4:05)

Personnel:
Monika Herzig (piano)
Jamie Baum (flute)
Reut Regev (trombone)
Jennifer Vincent (bass)
Rosa Avila (drums)
Lakecia Benjamin (alto saxophone)
Leni Stern, guitar)
Akua Dixon (cello),
Mayra Casales (percussion)