Allison Miller’s drumming talents are top notch. She’s played with greats ranging from Natalie Merchant to Dr. Lonnie Smith. But on Boom Tic Boom’s Otis Was a Polar Bear, released last month on Royal Potato Family Records, she showcases her evolving dynamic range as a composer, exercising restraint and release with a precision that only comes with experience. Miller writes counterpoint reminiscent of Bach and Ellington, but has developed her own creative, powerful voice in these 10 songs, inspired by the birth of her first child. The tracks take you on an emotional, ecstatic journey. Her band, which includes violinist Jenny Scheinman and upright bassist Todd Sickafoose, moves as one unit through shifting time signatures, moods, and textures. One of the best jazz albums of 2016.
Listen to this: while packing up your gear to get inspired for the show.
—Lisa Liu
Lisa Liu is a jazz guitarist based in Brooklyn, NY. She plays gypsy jazz, swing & bebop, and also performs as a solo fingerstyle guitarist. Find out more about LL at: http://lisaliuguitar.com/
May 5: Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola – NY, NY
7:30p set SOLD OUT
9:30p set
http://www.jazz.org/dizzys/