In Real Time＜Green Translucent Vinyl＞

The all-star jazz sextet Artemis further coalesce their sophisticated post-bop sound with their sophomore album, 2023s In Real Time. When the group debuted with 2020s eponymous title, the all-women group brought each of the members extensive solo experience to bear on their vibrant group sound. While part of the line-up has shifted since then, the group (still led by pianist Renee Rosnes) sounds even more united. Part of this is due to the increased time Rosnes and her rhythm section partners, including bassist Noriko Ueda and drummer Allison Miller, have spent touring and performing together. Also returning is trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, whose warm tone and lithe, Kenny Wheeler-esque harmonies work as a bold herald to the groups lush interplay. Coming on board this time out are tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover and alto saxophonist/multi-reedist Alexa Tarantino, who both bring their distinctive improvisational styles to the fore. While originality is still at the core of Artemis sound, theres a feeling that Rosnes and her bandmates are also exploring their influences. Its a vibe thats evident from the start on their sparkling rendition of longtime Pat Metheny keyboardist Lyle Mays "Slink," a song culled from his 1985 self-titled album. Here, Artemis transform the contemporary synths of Mays original into a more organic-sounding arrangement, one where the contrapuntal bass groove is nicely off-set by colorful flute, sax, and vocal harmonies. They further underscore the deep influences at play on In Real Time with albums closing take on Wayne Shorters "Penelope" fleshing out the late sax legends composition with Jensens muted, night sky trumpet leads, Rosnes luminous pianos chords, and spectral saxophone solo from Glover. Equally potent are the groups own originals, including Millers "Bow and Arrow" (a roiling tune in the 60s hard bop tradition) and Tarantinos atmospheric waltz "Whirlwind" (recalling Miles Davis 60s recordings). Theres also Jensens "Timber," her vocal-like trumpet textures framed by a funky 70s-style groove and Rosnes dewy Fender Rhodes accents. While much of In Real Time evokes the deep well of the post-bop jazz tradition that inspires Artemis, they never fail to inspire on their own terms. ~ Matt Collar