I’ve known Rachel for a long while. We were at IU roughly around the same time, but until recently, I don’t believe we have ever crossed paths within the same ensemble or event! Thankfully, that drought is over, and I have been fortunate enough to work with Rachel and see her perform for a room full of enthusiastic students at the Butler Jazz Camp.
At that Jazz Camp she handed me a copy of her new album and I was so happy to get it into my computer to listen to it! “We’re All in the Dance” is a swingin’ album. Each tune has it’s own groove and personality and the players, who are all ‘known’ players in their field, come together beautifully, complementing each other like a good meal. The album features Sara Caswell – violin, Dave Stryker – guitar, Fabian Almazan – piano/fender rhodes, Linda May Han Oh – bass, and Johnathan Blake – drums.
Rachel provides the vocals throughout the album, scats some really nice solos, and sings lines along with Dave Stryker on guitar. The blend of her voice and his guitar meld nicely. Each is an extension of the other.
It was great catching up with Rachel and hearing about all of her upcoming gigs and adventures. I hope you enjoy this album as much as I did. If you get the chance to hear Rachel playing, don’t pass it up!
For more information about Rachel and her schedule, visit her website:
Thanks for listening!
~ Rich
Have You Heard 