Mimi Jones | A New Day

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Mimi Jones | A New Day
By Randy Mahon

Mimi Jones‘ debut CD “A New Day” (Hot Tone Music) is a remarkable refreshing effort from the bassist/singer/songwriter. With the support of talented musicians, Miki Hayama on piano & keyboards, Marvin Sewell on guitar, Marcus Gilmore & Lucianna Padmore sharing drum duties and Ambrose Akinmusire on trumpet, this Smooth Jazz effort has the right combination of feel good grooves and tender ballads.

First track “Fast Lane” is a light hearted, feel good, toe-tapping swaying type of song! The stick work of the drummer Lucianna Padmore, sets up & keep the pace throughout the song, providing a perfect back drop for the others in which to play. Mimi’s smooth, technically executed electric bass solo to close out the song, gave me an idea of what to expect ….. A talent to keep an eye on!

Among the disc’s highlights are, “Watch Your Step”, with it’s bluesy slide guitar intro, along with Jones’ acoustic bass fills and tambourine hits, will conjure scenic backdrops of sitting on the porch on a hot summer afternoon in the Deep South. Jones’ easy whispery vocal delivery coos along the song medium paced tempo. Trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire tasty trumpet licks adds a nice dimension to the track.

“Spiral” featuring the Wurlitzer Electric Piano, played beautifully by Miki Hayama, flows gently along Mimi’s soulful vocals and bass playing. The rhythm section is as tight as ever with Marvin Sewell delivery a Mahavishnu like guitar solo.

The fiery “Mighty Time” is a fast tempo, straight ahead jazz number. You’ll hear a Miles Davis-esque trumpet solo featuring the chops of Ambrose Akinmusire. Following is an electric piano solo that’ll have one thinking they’re listening toHerbie Hancock. Afterwards, the tempo is slightly slowed down for guitarist Marvin Sewell to flex his muscle on his solo. Mimi’s acousticbass playing neatly glides along the track keeping all players in sync with one another.

“Silva” with it’s reggae feel, and message ofhope inspired lyrics, finds Mimi singing both lead and background parts. The hi hat and snare licks courtesy of Marcus Gilmore keeps the songs pace flowing effortlessly. The funky guitar licks of Marvin Sewell, alongside Miki Hayamma piano solo blend very together.

The late night feel of “Close Your Eyes” with it’s slow & easy, candlelight dinner atmosphere, finds Mimi singing in a Rachelle Ferrell mode. Her acoustic bass solo is the star here with it’s technically charged delivery.

The funky “For Granted” is a toe tapper with guitarist Marvin Sewell’s funky licks & the back beat of of drummer Marcus Gilmore. Mimi’s smooth and sensual vocals, with her bass chops keeps the mood upbeat and party like.

Subsequent songs, “All Night”, “Sista”, “Thank You” are nice additions to CD’s playlist. All played beautifully and melodically.

The closing track, the African-American civil rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome” is performed in a mid tempo smooth jazz context. Mimi’s layered lead and background vocals adds depth and dimension to this classic. The tightly knit rhythm section keeps the songs integrity intact. Mimi is a mega talent to be closely looked out for and I’m personally looking forward with great anticipation to hearing more from this gifted artist.

Randy Mahon
The Urban Music Scene