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. TRACKLISTING:
1. We Are the Champions 5:54
2. Eternal Dance 6:57
3. Dear Geri 7:03
4. Rabbit 4:59
5. Fly High 6:41
6. We Can Be (S)Heroes 4:56
7. Fall in Reading 8:03
8. Seas of Change 6:21
9. Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child 5:31
10. Up in the Sky 6:58
11. Memories of Petra 3:12
Monika Herzig – piano
Jamie Baum – flute
Reut Regev – trombone (& vocal track 10)
Jennifer Vincent – bass
Rosa Avila – drums
Lakecia Benjamin – alto sax (tracks 1 & 5)
Leni Stern – guitar (tracks 1, 2, 4, 8 – 10)
Akua Dixon – cello (tracks 3 & 6)
Mayra Casales – percussion (tracks 2 & 4)