I would guess that even among many jazz aficionados the name Jamie Baum might elicit unknowing shrugs. However the flutist and composer has played with many of the top jazz artists on the New York City scene. Among her many accolades, she was voted No. 1 Rising Star Flute in the 2012 Downbeat Critics Poll. And the new Jamie Baum Septet + album, In This Life (Sunnyside), is a joy to listen to. Baum wrote nine of the 11 songs on the album, which is buoyed by a strong cast of supporting players. Guitarist Brad Shepik, for one, shines on “In Another Life,” and he’s also featured as a soloist with Baum and trumpeter Amir ElSaffar on “The Game.” The songs feature lush textures and adventuresome rhythms. The group coheres on its travels down intriguing paths, under the direction of bandleader Baum. — M.S.
(American Jewish World, 1.31.14)
